The use of multiple linear regression method to estimate age by measurements in dry adult human skulls

Methods for human identification through characteristics such as age have been developed throughout the years and are object of investigation of forensic anthropology and legal dentistry. objective: this study aimed at proposing a new method for age prediction using human dry skulls. material and methods: seven linear measurements and one rectangular geometrical area were performed in 299 dry skulls (181 male and 118 female) of individuals with age ranging between 18 and 95 years. measurements were performed by well trained examiners. results: qui-square test demonstrated statistical difference (p<0.01) regarding age proportion. pearson correlation coefficient did not evidenced association between age and the other variables. however,association of age with 3 measurements (ans-lplmp,ans-lprmp e imd) was observed (p<0.05),making possible to apply multiple linear regression model to predict age by means of cranial measurements. conclusion: the method proposed in this study is not exact for age estimation. moreover,it was not observed association regarding age and the variables examined.