Exploration of thyromental distance variation in relation with the height, body weight and sex in two ethnic groups of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study aimed at investigating the thyromental distance variation in relation with the height, body weight and sex among adults of the  two major tribes (Ibibio and Annang) of Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria. This is to ascertain the possible difficult intubation that could be  experienced by any of the two tribes. Additionally, the study also aimed to examine the eventual medical and/or anthropological  repercussions of this variation. A total of 300 volunteers within the two tribes consisting of 48% males and 52% females, aged between  18-50 years were measured. Results showed a progressive increase in the thyromental distance (TMD) as age increases within the age  brackets of 26-30 and 31-35 years respectively, and a decrease within the age bracket of 46-50 years. Notable variation was seen across  the ethnic groups. Annang males within the age grade of 21-25 years had the highest thyromental distance greater than 6.5 cm.  Moreover, our result revealed that, Annang males have a higher thyromental distance than the Ibibio males, while Ibibio females have a  higher thyromental distance than the Annang females. However, there was a large percentage difference between the sexes and the  thyromental distances varied across the ethnic groups, with significant differences between ages, height and body weight observed within the Ibibios and Annangs. Conclusively, our findings revealed that the Annang citizens are taller and heavier than their Ibibio  counterparts.