Sexual dimorphism in hand grip strength and hand dimensions among Hausas

Kabiru B Umar, Barnabas Danborno, Kolawale V Olorunshola, Lawan H Adamu

Annals of Bioanthropology 2016 4(2):90-95

Background: Handgrip strength (HGS) is an anthropometric variable that is affected by a number of factors including age, gender, and body size. Aim: This study was designed to determine the gender differences in HGS and hand dimensions of secondary schools students in Kano metropolis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out on Hausas of Kano Metropolitan. Seven hundred and ten (340 males and 370 females) participated in the study. The hand dimensions were measured using digital vernier caliper. The HGS of right and left hands were measured using a standard adjustable digital hand grip dynamometer at sitting position. Descriptive statistics (mean ± standard deviation) was used to express the data. Independent sample t-test was used to find differences. Statistical significance was declared at P< 0.05. Data were analyzed using SPSS (IMB, Corporation, NY, USA) version 20. Results: A significant difference was observed among 17–18 and 19–20 age groups in the right-handed female participants with no such differences in the left-handed female participants. For 17–18 aged groups, the significant difference exists between the sexes in HGS and hand dimensions. In 19–20 age groups, similar pattern of significant difference was noticed in HGS and hand dimensions. Conclusion: It was concluded that function of HGS is the function of good hand dimension and body variable and vice versa. Age provided to be a factor that may influence the grip strength and hand dimension among Hausas.

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