Statistical estimation of height from arm span in north Indian subjects

We measured height and arm span of 400 males and 231 female subjects between 16-83 years of age. Arm span exceeded height in 82.6% subjects. Mean height to arm span ratio was 0.9711 and 0.9816 in males and females respectively, and was not significantly correlated with age. Linear regression equations were generated for both sexes for prediction of height from arm span and age. The use of height to arm span ratio was found to be a less suitable method than the use of regression equations in estimating height from arm span.