Middle Finger Length as a Predictor of Standing Height Among Adolescents in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Accurate height measurement is crucial for paediatric nutritional assessment, growth monitoring, and clinical decision-making. When direct measurement is difficult, surrogate anthropometric indicators such as middle finger length (MFL) may provide practical alternatives.

Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between MFL and standing height among adolescents in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and to develop predictive equations including sex- and age-specific models.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 1,222 adolescents (10–19 years) from selected secondary schools. Standing height and MFL were measured using WHO-standardized procedures. Pearson correlation assessed the relationship, and linear regression produced predictive equations. Analyses were performed for the total population, by sex, and across three age groups (10–13, 14–16, 17–19 years). Agreement between measured and predicted height was assessed using Bland-Altman analysis

Results: A moderate positive correlation was observed between MFL and height (r = 0.672, p < 0.001). The overall predictive equation was Height = 89.782 + 8.819(MFL) (R² = 0.452). Sex-specific models demonstrated slightly higher correlation in males (r = 0.685) than in females (r = 0.659). Age-stratified analyses showed stronger correlations in older adolescents.

Conclusion: MFL is a practical predictor of standing height in Nigerian adolescents. Sex- and age-specific models improve predictive accuracy, offering utility in clinical, public health, and forensic contexts.