Applicability of Suchey–Brooks Method of Age Estimation from Pubic Symphysis in a North Karnataka Population: A Prospective Study

Background: Age estimation is a critical component of forensic identification. The Suchey–Brooks method, widely used for age estimation from the pubic symphyseal surface, is based on a population sample from North America. Its applicability to the Indian population, particularly in North Karnataka, requires validation. Objective: To evaluate the applicability and reliability of the Suchey–Brooks method in age estimation from the pubic symphysis in individuals from the Belagavi region. Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 175 cadavers brought for medicolegal autopsy at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Belgaum Institute of Medical Sciences, Belagavi, from 01/01/2018 to 31/12/2018. Pubic symphyses were harvested from cadavers meeting defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Age was estimated using the Suchey–Brooks phase method and compared with the known chronological age of the deceased. Morphological parameters such as relief of the symphyseal surface, delimitation, presence of a symphyseal rim, and pubic tubercle development were assessed. Results: All six phases of the Suchey–Brooks method were represented in the study sample. A good correlation was observed between the estimated and actual chronological ages in both males and females, particularly in phases 1 to 4. Accuracy diminished in phases 5 and 6, where significant overlap in age ranges was noted. The method was most reliable in individuals up to 30 years of age. Sex-specific application showed comparable performance across both sexes, with minor variability in morphological features. Conclusion: The Suchey–Brooks method is applicable and reliable for age estimation in the North Karnataka population, particularly in individuals younger than 30 years. While it can be used in both sexes, caution should be exercised when applying it to older age groups (phases 5 and 6), where morphological changes show less correlation with chronological age.