engleski

Secular changes in craniofacial dimensions and sexual size dimorphism index in Croatian population

The aim of this study was to track temporal changes in sexual dimorphic craniofacial dimensions in a Croatian student sample. The research is part of a broader anthropometric research that is monitoring secular changes in craniofacial morphology of Croatian population. Although the study is based only on anthropometric data, it will discuss the impact of genetics and environment on secular changes in craniofacial morphology and sexual dimorphism, with special emphasis on the possible role of epigenetics. A total of 878 Croatian students aged 19-21 years, born between 1982 and 1990, were included in the research during a 10-year period (2000 - 2010). The variables investigated in the research were: cranial length, cranial breadth, cranial height, morphological facial height, facial breadth and the corresponding sexual size dimorphism indexes. A different pattern of changes in craniofacial dimensions was observed between sexes. In the male sample all craniofacial measurements except head circumference showed a significant change. In contrast, females showed significant changes only in head circumference and morphologic facial height. Sexual dimorphism did not display significant changes over time. The human craniofacial complex modifies and develops in response to environmental, hormonal and genetic factors. The study confirms the enduring process of craniofacial remodeling in Croatian population and shows a different response of the male and female craniofacial complex to temporal changes. Secular trends occur too quickly to be attributed to genetic changes. They are under strong environmental influence, and therefore should start to be considered in the context of epigenetics.

anthropometry; epigenetics; secular changes; sexual dimorhism; Croatia

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