Differences in epilepsy and seizures between Asia and the West

There are some biological differences in epilepsy between the Asia and the West, mainly related to the young average age and the smaller physique among Asians. The climatic differences partly account for the higher prevalence of Japanese encephalitis and malaria, which remains important causes of acute symptomatic seizures in parts of Asia. By comparison, psychosocial, cultural, economic, political and organizational factors are much more important in influencing epilepsy causation, management and outcome in the region. With limited resources, the later should be given priority in research to improve epilepsy care in Asia. Neurology Asia 2007; 12 : 59 – 60 Address correspondence to: Professor CT Tan, Neurology Laboratory, University Malaya Medical Centre, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia INTRODUCTION In view of limited resources, it is pertinent to examine the main differences in epilepsy between Asia and the West, so as to concentrate the limited resources on issues facing Asia, to ensure better epilepsy care in the region. BIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL