Anthropometric variables and their discriminatory potential in group of individuals stratified by sex and age
Arenas, O.; de Pérez, B.M.; Castillo, T.L.
Acta Cientifica Venezolana 39(4): 375-379
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-5504 PMID: 3270294 Document Number: 325528
A multidimensional study of a population stratified by sex and age was undertaken by means of the anthropometrical variables: 656 students (317 males and 330 females) provided data for the study. Three age groups were considered: less than 11.03 years (group 1), 11.04-15.03 (group 2) and 15.04-21.03 (group 3); measurements were taken following international guildlines. Discriminant analysis and cluster analysis were used in order to establish difference between the three groups. For males, weight, height, suprailic skinfold, femur width and biceps circumference were the most powerful discriminants variables. Height, femur width, and calf girth among females groups had the highest discriminant power. Two clusters were observed for both sexes: weight, circumferences and widths conformed the first one, while the skinfolds conformed the order. The difference between the dendrograms for males and females were based on the correlation coefficient level. The discriminant power of variables is related to age and sex, also a high correlation between two variables does not mean similarity in their discriminatory potential. According to both analysis, less variables are needed when the aim is to characterize a population. Discriminant analysis showed the great variability that we may expect at the age of adolescence.