Relationship between Growth Pattern and Head Dimensions in Nigerian Children (5-15 Years)

The aim of this study is to establish pattern of head dimensions of Nigerian children 5-15 years. The subjects of this study were 377 Nigerian children, boys (n = 173) and girls (n = 204) with mean age 9.87 + 3.22 and 10.11 + 302 respectively. Head dimensions traits measured were head length, head breadth and head circumference while cephalic index was calculated. Subjects height and weight were also measured all measurement were conducted following standard protocols. Student t-test was used to show significant difference while Pearson correlation was used to establish relationship between the variables considered. Of all the parameters considered only head length and cephalic index showed significant difference with P<0.001. The mean head length of boys was found to be greater than those of girls while cephalic index in girls was statistically different (P <0.001) than those of boys. Head breadth, head circumference, height and weight statistically showed no significant difference though the mean values in girls are slightly greater than those in boys. Head length was observed to increase unsteadily from 5-15 years for both sexes. Cephalic index also increased down the age classes with mean value greater in girls than in boys. The correlation matrix showed that all the head dimensions correlates significantly with height and weight in boys and girls (P <0.05, P <0.001) but cephalic index showed no correlation with boys' height and weight but it correlates with girls weight and not their height. This study shows gradual increase in the growth of head dimensions with difference between boys and girls in head length, head circumference and cephalic index. Although cephalic index showed occurrence of brachycephalic head form, mesocephalic head form is more predominant. Sexual dimorphism is clearly demonstrated between boys and girls in head length and cephalic index.