Changes in Cephalic Index and Head circumference of Igbo Children and Adolescents in a Nigerian Population

Abstract

Background: The cephalic index and head circumference are important anthropometric parameters that can provide insights into the physical characteristics and growth patterns of populations. There is dearth of data on Cephalic Index and Head circumference of Igbo Children and Adolescents. Method: This study examined 725 Igbo children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 years in Enugu, South-eastern Nigeria, using a cross-sectional approach. Results: The majority of participants exhibited mesocephalic head shape (43.2%), with brachycephalic and dolichocephalic shapes observed in 32.7% and 14.2% of the population, respectively. Mean head circumference increased with age in both sexes. Cephalic indices in boys under 12 and girls under 15 were below 80 but increased above these ages. Changes in head shape, potentially towards brachycephalization, were noted as children grew. Significant correlations were found between head circumference and cephalic index with age, height, weight, and body mass index, suggesting their relevance in forensic and anthropological investigations. Conclusion: Our results indicate diversity in head shapes and sizes, with mesocephalic heads being most common. As age increases, head circumference also tends to increase, and changes in head shape towards brachycephalization was observed. These findings underscore the importance of understanding anthropometric variations in different populations and suggest avenues for further research, particularly longitudinal studies, to explore the factors influencing these patterns.