Prediction of stature using hand dimensions.

In this study, an attempt was made to find out possible correlations between hand dimensions and stature using linear and curvilinear regression models for both genders. The study was conducted amongst 250 medical students (125 male and 125 female) aged 18-30 years. Each student has been studied for measurements of stature, hand length and hand breadth. To explain stature, all the explanatory variables like age, sex, hand length (right and left) and hand breadth (right and left) were included for model generation using SPSS. A general linear regression model was found to be best explanatory in both males and females, however, amongst the curvilinear models; the exponential model emerged as the 'best' in explaining stature of the individual. Left hand length alone explained very significantly (P<0.001).