Gender determination from fingerprint patterns distribution among malaysian tamils

Fingerprint is a conclusive evidence used globally for identification of both live and dead persons. Fingerprints are impression of patterns formed by the papillary or epidermal ridges of the fingertips. These are patterns used by the forensic researchers for human identification. The present study aimed to investigate the fingerprint pattern distribution in all ten fingers among Malaysian Tamils for gender determination for use in crime scene investigation. This study recruited 280 adult Malaysian Tamils living mostly in Peninsular Malaysia. The age range of the subjects is from 18 to 55 years. Informed consent and ethical approval were obtained. Following the standard procedure, fingerprints have been collected from the participants. Then the finger prints were examined under a magnifier and the patterns were recorded. The data were analysed statistically and observed significant differences in fingerprint patterns among genders. Males have dominant arch pattern in both hands and left hand comparatively shows higher frequency than right. On the contrary females possessed higher frequency of whorl pattern compared to males. The present investigation provided valuable information for genderdetermination through fingerprint patterns. The result of the study may be used to narrow down the suspects through gender and ease the forensic investigation.