Abstract

 The role of Forensic anthropology to derive alternative and newer modes of identification is increasing every day. Estimation of stature is one of the important initial steps during forensic analysis of human skeletal remains. The aim of the present study was to derive a linear regression formula for estimating stature of adult Indian males from the length of the sternum. The study included 100 male & female sternums of Indian origin dissected from cadavers during medico-legal autopsies. Regression equation derived for both sexes collectively was “Stature=94.228 + 4.474 × (Combined Length of manubrium and body of sternum)”, with Standard Error=3.901cm and strength of association=0.858. This preliminary study concludes that the length of the sternum can be used as a tool for stature estimation in adult Indian males.

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