The effect of ethnicity on facial anthropometry in Ikwerre ethnic group (Emohua, Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor) in rivers state

The human face is a crucial element for identification and social interaction, with its morphology influenced by various factors including ethnicity, age, and sex. While global anthropometric data exists, specific information for many Nigerian ethnic groups remains limited, hindering applications in fields like forensic science and reconstructive surgery. This study aimed to determine the effect of ethnicity on facial anthropometry among adult populations in Emohua, Port Harcourt, and Obio/Akpor ethnic groups in Rivers State, Nigeria. Objectives included directly measuring and documenting facial dimensions, calculating proportion indices, and identifying gender-based and intra-ethnic variations. A total of 370 adult Ikwerre indigenes (188 males, 182 females) aged 16-65 years were recruited using simple random sampling. Facial length (nasion-gnathion height) and facial width (bizygomatic breadth) were measured using a digital Vernier caliper. The prosopic index (PI) was calculated, and face shapes were categorized based on Banister’s classification. Statistical analysis involved the independent Student’s t-test (p = 0.05). Significant statistical differences (p < 0.05) were observed in facial length between males and females across all three ethnic groups, with males consistently exhibiting greater facial lengths. The mean length in Emohua, male facial length averaged 109.49±5.94mm compared to female facial length of 100.60±13.63mm. Facial width, however, showed no significant gender difference within each ethnic group. The mean prosopic index for Emohua females was 79.83±11.11, classifying them as Hypereuriprosopic. Emohua males and both males and females from Port Harcourt exhibited Mesoprosopic faces, with mean indices of 88.37±4.84, 88.79±3.82, and 85.18±6.71 respectively. Obio/Akpor females were Euriprosopic (83.91±3.84), while males w-ere Mesoprosopic (89.41±3.23). Slight significant differences in female prosopic indices were noted across the ethnic groups, whereas male prosopic indices showed no significant inter-ethnic variation. There is essential preliminary baseline data for forensic analysis, facial reconstruction, and local cosmetology, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive anthropometric interpretations.