Based on the BMI, the whole population was divided into three groups (normal, overweight, obese), using the standard cutoff values. Statistical analysisĭata analysis was done using SPSS 17.0. The cutoff levels used for the NC determined were NC ≥37 cm for men and ≥34 cm as indicators of obesity. In order to make the measurements precise, NC was measured twice and the mean is calculated. It was measured by a single trained examiner in order to avoid the investigator bias. All circumference measurements were taken at the end of expiration with a plastic tape measuring within 1 mm.

In men, with a laryngeal prominence (Adam's apple), measurements were taken below the prominence. NC was measured at the level of the upper margin of the thyroid cartilage. Estimation of BMIīMI of the participants was calculated by the given formula after the measurement of height and weight of the participant: BMI = weight (kg)/(height (m) × height (m)). The ratio was calculated by dividing the mean index finger lengths (mm) and mean ring finger lengths (mm) for the right hand. The examiner was trained and calibrated prior to the conduct of the experiment. Two measurements were taken from both the hands by the same examiner. The digit lengths were measured using a Digital Vernier Caliper. Measurement of 2D:4D ratioĢD:4D ratio was measured from both the hands. Participants with any history of injury/surgeries/congenital abnormalities of the second and fourth digits or the neck and participants with goiter/any neck swellings were excluded from the study. The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 168 adolescents of 18–19 years of age, of both sexes (67 males and 101 females) pursuing their undergraduate education in Physiotherapy in a South Indian university. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants of the study. Information sheet with pertinent information was given to all the participants invited to participate in the study. The study was initiated after obtaining ethical clearance (0/IEC/SU). MATERIALS AND METHODS Ethical considerations Based on the independent associations of 2D:4D ratios and NC with obesity and risk of heart disease, the objectives of the present study were to compare the 2D:4D ratios of adolescents of 18–19 years of age between sexes, in groups based on BMI, and then correlate 2D:4D ratio with NC. NC has been reported as a risk marker for cardiovascular diseases. 2D:4D ratio, being a putative marker for in utero levels of these hormones, is expected to exhibit sexual dimorphism in the risk of development of cardio vascular disease. The formation and maintenance of the cardiovascular system is sensitive to testosterone and estrogen in men. Literature search revealed interesting associations between 2D:4D ratio and increased sperm counts, increased risk for heart disease, obesity and metabolic syndrome, depression, and anxiety. Sexual dimorphism in digit ratios has been studied in various racial and ethnic groups and it has been observed that 2D:4D is negatively related to prenatal testosterone and positively associated with prenatal estrogen. However, studies on a larger sample might help us reveal the association between NC and 2D:4D ratios. Conclusion:ĢD:4D ratio and NC could be used as simple measures for screening of people at higher risk for heart disease and metabolic syndrome. However, no statistically significant correlation between NC and 2D:4D ratios was observed in overweight and obese individuals. There was a significant negative correlation between NC and 2D:4D ratios of the individuals with normal BMI. There was no significant correlation between 2D:4D ratios and BMI. Comparison of 2D:4D ratios between the sexes revealed statistical significance (males = 0.966, females = 0.977, and P value = 0.019).

Mean right and left hand ratios of the study population were 0.973 ± 0.030 and 0.975 ± 0.069, respectively. Mean 2D:4D ratio and NC were compared between the three groups using one-way ANOVA. All the participants were divided into three groups (normal, overweight, and obese) on the basis of their BMI. 2D:4D ratio and NC were measured using Digital Vernier Calipers and plastic inch tape, respectively. Materials and Methods:Īfter obtaining ethical clearance, the study was conducted on 168 adolescents pursuing their undergraduate education in a South Indian university. The objectives of the present study were to measure the 2D:4D ratio of adolescent students and study its association with neck circumference (NC). There is an alarming rise in the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents.

A bidirectional relationship between testosterone and obesity is explained by the hypogonadal obesity cycle and evidence from reports stating that weight loss leads to increased testosterone levels.

2d 4d ratio