Estimation of stature from head length

Aim In this study an attempt has been made to derive a linear regression equation for estimation of stature from the length of head. Background Estimation of stature from head length is considered as an important parameter in medico-legal and forensic examinations. When highly decomposed and mutilated dead bodies with fragmentary remains are brought for postmortem examination, it becomes difficult to identify the deceased. Material Methods The present study is conducted on 506 medical students 255 male and 251 female of age group between 18 ? 25 years, was conducted at Index medical college hospital and research center Indore. The measurements were taken by using standard anthropometric instruments. Results The observed data was subjected to statistical analysis like‘t’ test for correlation coefficient. The value of ‘t’ was found to be statistically significant. Simple linear regression equation derived has been used for estimation of height. Conclusion It is concluded that the head length provides good reliability in estimation of stature in forensic examinations & in medicolegal cases and the correlation between present parameters can be helpful in medico-legal cases for identification of individuals.