When researchers compared outcomes between Western countries and India for people who receive treatment for schizophrenia, which country had better overall results? If you said India, you’re right.

How is this possible, given Canada’s generally superior standard of living? To find the answer and employ the results to improve treatment worldwide, the Douglas’ Prevention and Early Intervention Psychosis Program (PEPP-Montreal), led by Douglas specialist Ashok Malla, MD FRCPC, – along with Drs. Ridha Joober and Srividya Lyer – has teamed up with the Schizophrenia Research Foundation (SCARF), in Chennai, India, led by Rangaswamy Thara, MD, PhD. Both leaders are acclaimed for their work in psychosis research. Their two-year study ends December 2010.

Approximately 108 people (from both India and Canada) suffering from first-episode psychosis and receiving similar treatment are being followed. Special attention is given to determining which factors, including the role of family and culture, are likely to explain India’s superior results. As part of the study, additional staff in India have been hired and provided with first-episode psychosis-related training, to improve their skills and knowledge base. Douglas- and SCARF-based researchers are also visiting each other’s facilities to share expertise.

The results of this collaboration are highly anticipated for several reasons. First, they will be used to improve early intervention techniques to prevent psychosis-related problems from becoming chronic. Second, they will help to improve guidelines for patient management. These matters are of deep concern for Canada, India, and the rest of the international community.

We wish them great success.