**5. Diagnostic imaging research (first phase)**

#### **5.1 Research purpose**

Clinical research planning was conducted to clarify changes in the development and aging of the jawbone of Lao people by digital imaging via telemedicine. The research theme was a morphological study on the cortical bone of the mandible in Lao people, using digital panoramic images.

Osteoporosis is a major public health problem confronting both developed and developing countries [18, 19]. Osteoporosis can affect both children and adults and is especially detected in postmenopausal women. The typical clinical presentation of osteoporosis is the radiographic detection of bone fractures, largely in the absence of causative trauma. These fractures occur due to a reduction in bone mineral density and general reduction in bone mass. Osteoporosis is usually diagnosed by measuring bone mineral density of the spine or femur. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is recommended for precise diagnosis of low bone mass. No DXA equipment is currently available in Laos. Recently, it has been reported that mandibular cortical bone thickness is associated with bone mineral density and can be an effective indicator for the diagnosis of bone litigation. Therefore, we are conducting joint research to create a standard mandibular cortical wide (MCW) in Laos. Our diagnostic imaging study aimed to establish the diagnosis technology for osteoporosis using digital imaging of the jawbone. To proceed with this study, an ICT system for diagnostic imaging between Japan and Laos was required.
