Aging and sexual dimorphism in aborigines from Chubut (Argentina)

The aim of this work was to assess the morphological variation and sexual dimorphism associated to aging processes in the Tehuelche community of El Chalía (Chubut, Argentina). A cross-sectional anthropometric study was carried on forty-three individuals of both sexes, divided by age groups: adults (from 20 to 60 years old) and seniles (from 61 to 80 years old). Data were processed by Multifactor analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc LSD (multiple range tests). Z scores were calculated using US standards as the reference. Senile aborigines showed lower values in the most of variables compared to adults. Sexual dimorphism was evident in almost all the variables. Skinfolds and fat area showed the greatest sexual differences, females being greater than males. Since historical Tehuelche aborigines are known to be the tallest South-American Indian, the short stature found in the current population may be associated to negative secular changes and the poor quality of the living conditions.