Schizophrenia is a chronic debilitating illness that affects young individuals worldwide. It leads to difficulties in many areas including social and occupational functioning. Access to treatment for schizophrenics are usually beset with obstacles that lead to delays in obtaining the necessary intervention. One of the reasons for these delays is failure to recognize early symptoms of the illness and it is vital that they receive treatment early to prevent or minimize serious impairment later in life. This study was conducted with the aim of helping doctors identify early symptoms and how these symptoms may manifest differently between both genders and different ethnic groups.

Associate Professor Dr Koh Ong Hui is a Consultant Psychiatrist at University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Professor Koh obtained his undergraduate degree in Manipal Academy of Higher Education that is very well established and postgraduate Masters training and degree at the very same university where he is now attached to.