SEXUAL DIMORPHISM: INVESTIGATION OF THE VARIATIONS IN BODY WEIGHT, HEIGHT, WAISTLINE AND BMI IN A NIGERIAN GROUP

BETWEEN AGE FIFTEEN AND TWENTY

Akinbola, A.S¹ and Owolabi, J.O²

¹Community Health Department, Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria

²Anatomy Department, Ben Carson Sr. School of Medicine, Babcock University, Nigeria

E-mail: olaowolabi001@yahoo.com, yemson4god@yahoo.com

Abstract: Sexual dimorphism is a term used to describe the phenotypic difference between males and female of the same species. In humans this term describes features that basically differentiate the male and the female sexes morphologically. This investigation was aimed at examining the nature and extent of Sexual Dimorphism relative to weight, height and waistline in the target population. Sexual dimorphism is in the mainstream of biomedical research because of the importance of its applications across several areas of human endeavour. The need for specific data that will accurately and adequately present and represent the nature, pattern and extents of sexual dimorphism in the Nigerian population- a nation that accounts for one of the largest negroid populations of the world is considered paramount to science and its applications. 520 randomly selected volunteers within the target population were considered and data were taken based on relevant parameters. Weights were recorded using the Adult Weight Scale, Platform XH- Model [ZT-150A]; heights with the use of the scale meter rule and waistline size with the aid of the rubber tape rule while taking necessary measures and precautions to ensure accuracy. BMI for each subject was calculated using the values of height and weight obtained (BMI = Weight (kg) / [Height (m)]². All calculations were done using the SI units and results were analysed and compared using descriptive statistical methods. It was found that sexual dimorphism was evident and varies with age based on the selected parameters. Sexual dimorphism in forms of weight, height and waistline presents significant variations in the target population.