Angular Photogrammetric Comparison of the Craniofacial Soft-tissue Profile of Three Ethnic Groups in Southern Nigeria

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the angular craniofacial soft tissue profile of adult southern Nigerian males of Igbo, Ijaw and Yoruba extractions.

Methodology: The study made use of a total number of one thousand two hundred (1200) subjects divided into four hundred (400) subjects each from the Igbo, Yoruba and Ijaw ethnic groups of southern Nigeria whose ages ranged between 21 to 40 years. Determination of minimum sample size was done using the Taro-Yamane’s formula. The study employed the use of photogrammetry. Standardized photographic record of the 1200 adults were taken in the natural head position. Photographs were analysed using a software tool (WinImager). Data generated were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 25.0 and Microsoft Excel 2019.

Results: Results showed ethnic variations across the different ethnic groups. Age related changes were also observed. On comparison with other racial populations, marked differences were observed.

Conclusion: These anthropometric values define the facial soft tissue norm of southern Nigeria and could be useful in anthropometric studies, orofacial, orthodontic and maxillofacial surgeries, and forensics.