The Importance and Application of Anthropometry in Medical Sciences and Related Industries: A Narrative Review

Anthropometry is known as the science of measuring various parts of the human, and its application is to identify individual differences including race, age, and gender. The use of anthropometry is instrumental in medical science and clarifies the relationship between different parts of the body with identifying an individual, as well as identifying congenital disorders. For this purpose, this article aimed to explain the importance and application of anthropometry in medical science and related industries. Previous studies showed the application of anthropometry in various fields, including forensic medicine, identification, cosmetic surgery, industrial design, clothing design, ergonomics and architecture. In the case of having an adequate database of anthropometric measurements, the standard dimensions for each population can be defined, so that dead bodies can easily be identified. Proper ergonomic design of the workplace increases the employee's job satisfaction, and significantly reduces musculoskeletal discomfort and work-related injuries. Paying attention to body dimensions in the form of anthropometry will make better design of office supplies and clothing for individuals that will ensure the performance and health of the individual. Also, anthropometry can be used in various fields of medicine, including forensic medicine and the diagnosis of congenital anomalies and acquired problems. Key words: Anthropometry, Forensics medicine, Anatomy   Funding: This study was funded by Tehran University of medical sciences. Conflict of interest: All of the authors declared no conflict of interest. Ethical approval: Non declared.   How to cite this article: Mojaverrostami S, Najibi A, Mokhtari T, Malekzadeh M, Hassanzadeh Gh. The Importance and Application of Anthropometry in Medical Sciences and Related Industries: A Narrative Review. J Rafsanjan Univ Med Sci 2019; 18 (6): 589-606 [Farsi]