[An introduction of the concept of social capital into health promotion activities].

Social factors, such as networks, institutions, trust, and social norms, are currently known as "Social Capital", the concept of which seeks to provide a basis for visualization and measurement of phenomena stemming from such factors. As a considerable amount of research has demonstrated that collective actions may be established with a greater degree of ease in communities with well-accumulated social factors, we can promote collective actions of Health Promotion activities through the concept of Social Capital and thereby establish more effective intervention. It is to be expected that theoretical research and operational experience using Social Capital may contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of Health Promotion activities, improving various health determinants through collective action.