On July 16, a team of researchers and students from Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) travelled to Kuldīga, where, in collaboration with students from the Latvian Academy of Culture and under the leadership of Professor Jānis Vētra, they will conduct an anthropological study of the Latvian population. Measurements and analyses will be carried out throughout the week in Kuldīga, concluding on Sunday, July 20. The following stages of the research will continue this summer in Liepāja (starting July 23) and in Ventspils (beginning August 6).
The "Jēkabs Prīmanis Anthropological Research Project on the Latvian Population" was launched in 2024. It continues the work of the renowned anthropologist Professor Jēkabs Prīmanis, who conducted anthropological expeditions to study Latvia’s population during the 1930s in various regions and cities, including Liepāja and Ventspils. Physicians and medical students will perform all measurements. To ensure the process is smooth and efficient, participants are advised to wear clothing and shoes that are easy to remove and put on, as well as close-fitting underwear, since the measurements will be taken without outer clothing. No prior registration is required to participate; measurements will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, so participants should be prepared for a possible wait. Each participant’s measurements will take approximately 30 minutes.
Measurement schedule in Kuldīga at the Kuldīga Needle Factory:
- July 16: 15:00–19:00
- July 17: 10:00–19:00
- July 18: 10:00–19:00
- July 19: 10:00–19:00
- July 20: 09:00–14:00
For more information about the study and measurements, please get in touch with project administrator Arta Grabčika at
Arta.Grabcika@rsu.lv or +371 25442123.
About Rīga Stradiņš University
Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) is the leader in university reputation rankings in Latvia and one of the most modern higher education institutions in the Baltic region, with a strong international focus. In its five faculties and the consolidated Latvian Academy of Sports Education (LSPA), RSU offers modern programs in social sciences, sports pedagogy, and medical and healthcare studies. In 2025, RSU celebrates its 75th anniversary, highlighting its significant role in Latvia’s development. Since its founding, RSU has become a centre of excellence in science and education, providing internationally competitive knowledge and innovations.
More information about RSU is available at www.rsu.lv.
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By participating in the 2025 study in Kuldīga, participants will have the opportunity to learn their height, body circumferences, foot length, shoulder width, and arm length, potentially identifying issues with the musculoskeletal system. A full-body 3D scan will also be performed. Adult participants will have the opportunity to donate blood for genetic research. Blood pressure and respiratory health indicators will also be measured.
The purpose of the study is to assess the overall health status of the population and observe trends, while also providing each participant with individual insights into their physical health. The results will later be compared with historical data collected nearly 100 years ago, offering valuable opportunities for analysis and comparison.
An equally important part of the project is the collection of demographic data, mobility patterns, and individuals’ attachment to their city or region. Participants will have the opportunity to complete specially designed questionnaires with the assistance of students from the Latvian Academy of Culture.
Participants of all ages are welcome, including children who can already walk and seniors. Families with children are warmly invited. Children under 18 must have consent from a parent or authorised guardian present during the study.
