title: [Definition and diagnostic criteria of osteoporosis in Japan].
abstract: The concept of osteoporosis was introduced in Japan after the World War II and become a major medical problem with rising social and economic consequence according to increasing population of old peoples. Osteoporosis is defined as " a disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to enhanced bone fragility and a consequent increase in fracture risk". In Japan a diagnostic criteria was drafted for clinical practice in 1996 by Japanese Society of Bone and Mineral Research.
authors.affiliation: Tottori University.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Yamamoto