Sex Estimation in the Haryana Population Using CT-Derived Sternal Morphometry: Development of a Population-Specific Formula
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jfmt.2026.43.02.28Keywords:
Computed Tomography, Sex Discrimination, Forensic anthropology, Sternum Morphometry, Logistic Regression, Population -specific StandAbstract
Background: Accurate sex estimation is a fundamental step in forensic identification. The sternum is a durable skeletal element that often survives decomposition and trauma, making it valuable in medico-legal investigations. Computed tomography (CT) provides precise, non-destructive, three-dimensional assessment of sternal morphology. However, sex estimation standards are population-specific because skeletal dimensions vary with ethnicity, genetics, nutrition, and environment. No validated formula currently exists for the Haryana population. Purpose: To analyze CT-derived sternal morphometry and develop a population-specific formula for sex estimation in the Haryana population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included thoracic CT scans of 72 individuals (26–90 years) of known age and sex, obtained for indications unrelated to sternal pathology. Measurements of manubrium length, body of sternum length, xiphoid process length, combined manubrium-body length, and total sternal length were recorded using RadiAnt DICOM Viewer after multiplanar and three-dimensional reconstruction. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the most reliable predictors of sex and to derive a discriminant formula. Results: All five morphometric variables showed significant association with sex on univariate logistic regression (p
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