Bei Wu

Dr. Wu is Dean’s Professor in Global Health and Vice Dean for Research at the NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing. She is an inaugural Co-Director of the NYU Aging Incubator. Prior to joining NYU, she was the Pauline Gratz Professor of Nursing at Duke University School of Nursing. Prof. Wu is an internationally-known leader in gerontology.

As a principal investigator, Prof. Wu has led numerous projects supported by federal agencies and private foundations, including the NIH and CDC. She is currently leading several NIH-funded projects including a clinical trial to improve oral health for persons

with cognitive impairment, and a large secondary data analysis to examine how the co-occurrence of diabetes and poor oral health may lead to the development of dementia and cognitive decline. She co-leads the newly funded Rutgers-NYU Center for Asian Health Promotion and Equity. Through this center, she also leads a 5-year intervention study that focuses on supporting Chinese and Korean dementia caregivers who are at increased risk for high blood pressure and diabetes due to the physical and emotional demands of caregiving. She is a director of the Research and Education Core for the NIA-funded Asian Resource Center for Minority Aging Research (RCMAR).

As a scholar, Prof. Wu is an internationally known leader in gerontology. Her scholarship has been distinguished by interdisciplinary collaborations with researchers in various disciplines, including nursing and dentistry, in the US and abroad. Her research areas cover a wide range of topics related to aging and global health, including oral health, long-term care, dementia, and caregiving. She is one of the first in the nation to study the linkages between oral health and cognitive decline in older adults. Her research has also addressed knowledge gaps in the linkages between oral health and diabetes.

Prof. Wu has devoted much of her time to training the next generation of aging and nursing scientists from dozens of academic institutions in the U.S. and abroad. She has mentored hundreds of faculty members, visiting scholars, and students from various disciplines, including nursing, gerontology, dentistry, medicine, social work, demography, public health, sociology, public policy, geography, and economics. She is successful in mentoring several dozens of early-stage faculty members in receiving competitive funding from NIH, Robert Wood Johnson Scholars, the Alzheimer’s Society (UK), National Science Foundation of China, China Medical Board, National Medical Research Council (Singapore), and many others.

Prof. Wu is a productive researcher. She has published more than 600 peer-reviewed papers, books, reports, and conference abstracts. Her extensive publications cover a wide range of topics related to aging and global health. She has delivered presentations at hundreds of conferences as an invited speaker. Her work has been widely recognized in the field. Research findings from her team have been featured by the National Institute on Aging, and in numerous media outlets, including the New York Times, CNN, BBC, U.S. News and World Report, MarketWatch, CBS News, Reuters, AARP Bulletin, China Daily, Daily Mail, South China Morning Post, and Financial Review.

Her achievement has been recognized by many international and national organizations and she is a fellow of the Gerontological Society of America, the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education, and the New York Academy of Medicine. She is an honorary member of the Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau International, and is the former president of the Geriatric Oral Research Group of the International Association for Dental Research. She has served on a number of NIH review panels and is a frequent reviewer for multiple international funding agencies. She was honored as the 2017 IADR Distinguished Scientist in Geriatric Oral Research. She is the recipient of the 2022 Wei Hu Inspiration Award from the China Health Policy and Management Society.

PhD - Gerontology Center, University of Massachusetts, Boston

MS - Gerontology Center, University of Massachusetts, Boston

BS - Shanghai University

Gerontology

Global

Honorary Member, Sigma Theta Tau International - Honor Society of Nursing

Distinguished Scientist Award for Geriatric Oral Research, International Association for Dental Research (2017)

Pauline Gratz Professorship, Duke University School of Nursing (2014)

J. Morita Junior Investigator Award in Geriatric Oral Health, International Association for Dental Research (2007)

Fellow, Gerontological Society of America

Fellow, New York Academy of Medicine

Fellow, Association for Gerontology in Higher Education

Adverse events and contributing factors in Chinese nursing homes: a multisite cross-sectional study

Wang, Z., Qi, X., Shi, Y., Shao, L., Li, W., Xie, X., Wu, B., & Zhang, J. (2025). Frontiers in Public Health, 13. 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1518552

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Adverse events in nursing homes, which are unintended incidents causing unnecessary harm to older residents. Previous studies in Chinese populations often focused on adverse events in hospitals, rather than residents in nursing homes. Additionally, they tended to focus on single incident rather than multiple types of adverse events. This study aims to assess the occurrence and contributing factors of multiple adverse events perceived by staff in Chinese nursing homes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 691 frontline staff from 11 nursing homes in Southern China (August 2021–January 2022). Data were collected using a General Information Questionnaire, the Adverse Event Reporting Awareness Scale, and the Adverse Event Reporting Habit Scale. Logistic regression models were employed to analyze the contributing factors of adverse events. Results: A total of 13 types of adverse events were screened out in nursing homes, and 477 (69.0%) participants reported that the adverse events “had happened” in the past year. The most common events were falls, unplanned extubation, and pressure sores. Clinical staff were 2.06 times more likely than frontline workers to report adverse events (95% CI = 1.13–3.76). Increased awareness (OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.15–1.34) and habitual reporting of adverse events (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.08) were positively associated with higher reporting rates. Conclusion: A significant proportion of staff reported adverse events, with clinical staff and those with better reporting habits noting higher occurrences. To enhance resident safety, nursing homes must prioritize preventing high-risk adverse events. Targeting frontline workers with lower reporting awareness and habits is crucial for effective interventions.

Association Between Oral Hygiene Behaviours and Cognitive Decline in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Zhu, Z., Yang, Z., Qi, X., Mao, W., Pei, Y., & Wu, B. (2025). Journal of Advanced Nursing, 81(5), 2277-2289. 10.1111/jan.16525

Abstract

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the association between oral hygiene behaviour and cognitive decline in adults. The outcomes include changes in global cognitive function, visual attention, task switching and the risk of dementia. Design: We conducted a systematic review following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. Data Sources: A systematic search of 11 databases and grey literature sources was conducted from inception to January 2024. We included interventional trials or cohort studies that investigated the effect of oral hygiene behaviours (e.g., toothbrushing, mouth washing, flossing, using toothpicks and cleaning dentures) on cognitive decline in adults. Methods: Data extraction and risk of bias assessment were performed by two independent reviewers with expertise in conducting systematic reviews. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models, and heterogeneity was assessed with the I2 statistic and χ2 test. Results: A total of eight studies (six intervention studies and two cohort studies) met inclusion criteria, including 261,772 participants. Follow-up periods ranged from 30 days to 48 months for interventions and 9 to 18 years for cohorts. Toothbrushing was associated with a significantly slower decline in global cognitive overtime. Toothbrushing in older adults with moderate/severe dementia could achieve significant changes in cognitive decline. There was no significant difference between the effectiveness of toothbrushing performed by professionals and caregivers. Other oral hygiene behaviours, including dental flossing, using mouthwash, using toothpicks and cleaning dentures, were not associated with the risk of dementia. Conclusions: Toothbrushing is linked to a decreased risk of dementia and improved global cognitive function. Promoting toothbrushing at least twice daily may significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Impact: These findings highlight the urgent need for programmes that encourage daily toothbrushing, particularly in nursing home settings and among older adults with moderate-to-severe dementia.

Association of Gum Treatment with Cognitive Decline and Dementia Risk among Older Adults with Periodontal Symptoms: A 12-Year Prospective Cohort Study

Zhu, Z., Wang, K., Zheng, Y., Li, A., Wu, B., & Qi, X. (2025). Neuroepidemiology, 59(4), 1-10. 10.1159/000540086

Abstract

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study examines the associations of gum treatment with cognitive decline and dementia risk among older adults with periodontal symptoms in the USA.METHODS: A cohort of 866 adults aged ≥50 with periodontal symptoms was recruited for the 2008 Health and Retirement Study "Dental Health Experimental Module" and followed until 2020. Cognitive function was assessed with the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS). Dementia status was ascertained with the Langa-Weir algorithm based on TICS scores and proxy assessments. Linear mixed-effects model and multivariable Cox regression models were utilized to analyze the associations of gum treatment with cognitive decline and the risk of dementia, respectively.RESULTS: Of 866 participants (mean age 67.7, 61.4% women), 105 (12.1%) developed dementia with a median follow-up of 9 (IQR, 6-10) years. The dementia incidence rates were lower in the group with gum treatment (7.4 vs. 12.9 per 1,000 person-years). Compared with participants who did not have gum treatment, those with gum treatment experienced a decline in TICS score that was on average 0.025 (95% CI, 0.005-0.044) points less per year and a 38% lower incidence of dementia (hazard ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.41-0.93). These associations were consistent across participants with a different severity of periodontal symptoms and sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, race, ethnicity, and education) except for income levels.CONCLUSION: Prompt gum treatment for older adults with periodontal symptoms may be beneficial for their cognitive health.

The association of hemopexin, muscle quality, and sarcopenia in Japanese older adults with cognitive impairment: a cross-sectional study

Zeng, D., Mizutani, K., Qi, X., Asada-Utsugi, M., Wu, B., Kawasaki, T., Akiguchi, I., & Kinoshita, A. (2025). BMC Geriatrics, 25(1). 10.1186/s12877-025-05977-8

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: To examine the cross-sectional associations of hemopexin, muscle quality, and sarcopenia status with cognitive function among older Japanese adults with cognitive impairment, and to explore the potential sex-specific differences. Methods: A total of 580 older adults (372 women, 208 men; mean age 83.3 ± 6.2 years) who presented with cognitive impairment at the Kyoto Dementia Comprehensive Center between 2018 and 2022 were enrolled. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Hemopexin level was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Muscle quality was evaluated via phase angle (PhA) and grip strength, and sarcopenia status was defined using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria. Multiple linear regression models, including sex-stratified analyses, were conducted to determine the relationships of these variables with MMSE scores. Results: Higher hemopexin levels (β = 1.19, p = 0.017), PhA (β = 0.59, p = 0.005), and grip strength (β = 0.14, p < 0.001) were independently associated with better MMSE scores, whereas sarcopenia was negatively linked to MMSE scores (β = − 2.28, p < 0.001). Notably, sex-stratified models indicated that hemopexin positively predicted MMSE scores in men but not in women; meanwhile, sarcopenia showed a stronger negative impact in women. Educational attainment also displayed a significant positive association with cognitive performance in both sexes. Conclusions: In this cross-sectional study of older Japanese adults with cognitive impairment, hemopexin levels and muscle quality emerged as important correlates of cognitive function, particularly in men, while sarcopenia was negatively linked to cognition.

Barriers to Timely Dementia Diagnosis in Older Latinos With Limited English Proficiency: An Integrative Review

Fernandez Cajavilca, M., Squires, A., Wu, B., & Sadarangani, T. (2025). Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 36(1), 57-72. 10.1177/10436596241268456

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: Timely diagnosis is critical for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) to ensure they receive adequate services; however, timely diagnosis may be prevented by a person’s English language skills. The purpose of this integrative review was to understand how limited English proficiency (LEP) impacts older Latino’s ability to access a timely ADRD diagnosis. Methods: Whittemore and Knafl’s methodological approach guided the review. Searches in five databases yielded 12 articles for inclusion. Results: Lack of culturally congruent health care systems, health care providers, and knowledge of ADRD resulted in delays in obtaining a timely ADRD diagnosis among older Latinos with LEP. Discussion: Latinos with LEP and risk for ADRD benefit from language assistance and support in navigating the health care system. Nurses must be advocates, even when a language barrier is present, and recognize that interpreters are not a single source solution.

Classifying Continuous Glucose Monitoring Documents From Electronic Health Records

Zheng, Y., Iturrate, E., Li, L., Wu, B., Small, W. R., Zweig, S., Fletcher, J., Chen, Z., & Johnson, S. B. (2025). Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology. 10.1177/19322968251324535

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Clinical use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is increasing storage of CGM-related documents in electronic health records (EHR); however, the standardization of CGM storage is lacking. We aimed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of CGM Ambulatory Glucose Profile (AGP) classification criteria. Methods: We randomly chose 2244 (18.1%) documents from NYU Langone Health. Our document classification algorithm: (1) separated multiple-page documents into a single-page image; (2) rotated all pages into an upright orientation; (3) determined types of devices using optical character recognition; and (4) tested for the presence of particular keywords in the text. Two experts in using CGM for research and clinical practice conducted an independent manual review of 62 (2.8%) reports. We calculated sensitivity (correct classification of CGM AGP report) and specificity (correct classification of non-CGM report) by comparing the classification algorithm against manual review. Results: Among 2244 documents, 1040 (46.5%) were classified as CGM AGP reports (43.3% FreeStyle Libre and 56.7% Dexcom), 1170 (52.1%) non-CGM reports (eg, progress notes, CGM request forms, or physician letters), and 34 (1.5%) uncertain documents. The agreement for the evaluation of the documents between the two experts was 100% for sensitivity and 98.4% for specificity. When comparing the classification result between the algorithm and manual review, the sensitivity and specificity were 95.0% and 91.7%. Conclusion: Nearly half of CGM-related documents were AGP reports, which are useful for clinical practice and diabetes research; however, the remaining half are other clinical documents. Future work needs to standardize the storage of CGM-related documents in the EHR.

Different Sources of Social Capital and Loneliness Among Adults in Shanghai, China: Exploring Sex Differences

Qi, X., Pei, Y., Li, G., Tang, W., Hall, B. J., & Wu, B. (2025). Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology, 35(2). 10.1002/casp.70089

Abstract

Abstract

Loneliness is a global health concern that negatively impacts physical/mental health. Social capital, encompassing resources from social networks, may protect against loneliness. We investigated the association between different sources of social capital and feelings of loneliness and examined whether these associations differ by sex. An online survey of 3220 Shanghai residents (mean age 34.5 years, 48.5% females) was conducted in 2022, Shanghai, China. We assessed bonding and bridging social capital using the revised 8-item Personal Social Capital Scale (PSCS) and used the revised three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale to measure loneliness. Multivariable linear regression analysis results suggest that both bonding (β coefficient: −0.152; SE: 0.035) and bridging social capital (β coefficient: −0.131; SE: 0.036) were significantly associated with lower loneliness, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, health conditions, and COVID-19-related factors. Notably, the mitigating effect of bonding social capital on loneliness was more pronounced in females, as indicated by significant interactions between sex and bonding social capital. Our study findings indicated that social capital serves as a protective factor against loneliness for Chinese adults, with bonding social capital having a stronger effect among females. Policies and interventions strengthening bonding social capital may facilitate reduced feelings of loneliness among Chinese, especially females.

Efficacy of a culturally tailored intervention on perceived stigma among women living with HIV/AIDS in China: A randomized clinical trial

Yang, Z., Han, S., Qi, X., Wang, J., Xu, Z., Mao, W., Zheng, Y., Zhang, Y., Wu, B., & Hu, Y. (2025). Ethics in Science and Medicine, 374, 118072. 10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118072

Abstract

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Despite evidence supporting the efficacy of culturally tailored interventions in reducing stigma, such approaches are lacking for women living with HIV/AIDS (WLWHAs) in China. We conducted this study to determine the efficacy of the culturally tailored Helping Overcome Perceived Stigma (HOPES) intervention in reducing perceived stigma among WLWHAs in China.METHODS: A single-blinded, two-arm parallel-group randomized clinical trial was conducted from 2023 to 2024 in South and Southwest China. WLWHAs from four hospitals were assigned using a WeChat-embedded randomization application to the control group (usual care) or the HOPES intervention. Data analysts remained blinded. Interventions were conducted virtually using Leave No One Behind (LNOB) platform for 3 months. The primary outcome, perceived stigma score, was assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention and at 3 months post-intervention using 7 items from the HIV/AIDS Stigma Experience Questionnaire (HASEQ), with data analyzed through repeated measures analysis.RESULTS: Of 136 WLWHAs screened, we randomized 101 WLWHAs (50 HOPES; 51 controls). The HOPES group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in perceived stigma scores immediately after the intervention (-3.86 points, 95 % CI: 5.34 to -2.38, P < .001) and at three months post-intervention (-5.83 points, 95 % CI: 7.20 to -4.47, P < .001) compared to the control group.CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate HOPES' efficacy in reducing perceived stigma in WLWHA. However, the clinical significance of these changes needs further investigation. Future research should focus on defining meaningful patient-reported thresholds, assessing long-term impact, and optimizing delivery methods.

Neighborhood physical environment satisfaction and aging attitudes in older Chinese adults: Differences by chronic condition status

Xu, Z., Zhao, D., Mao, W., Wang, J., Yang, Z., Zheng, Y., & Wu, B. (2025). Aging and Health Research, 5(3). 10.1016/j.ahr.2025.100241

Abstract

Abstract

Background: With China's aging population and rising prevalence of chronic conditions, it is crucial to understand the factors shaping aging attitudes. Satisfaction with the neighborhood physical environment may play an important role, particularly among those with chronic health issues. To examine the association between neighborhood physical environment satisfaction and aging attitudes among older Chinese adults, and to explore differences across groups with and without chronic conditions. Methods: We analyzed data from 11,395 participants aged 60 and above from the 2020 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS). Stratified multiple regression analyses were conducted, comparing subgroups with chronic conditions (n = 8405, 73.76 %) and without chronic conditions. Results: Among participants with chronic conditions, higher satisfaction with road conditions (β = 0.382, P = 0.001), environmental sanitation (β = 0.286, P = 0.007), and road/street lighting (β = 0.288, P = 0.005) was significantly associated with more positive attitudes toward aging. No significant associations were found among participants without chronic conditions. Conclusions: Age-friendly neighborhood environments are important for promoting positive aging attitudes, particularly among older adults living with chronic conditions. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and service providers aiming to support healthy aging in rapidly aging societies like China.

Psychological distress in Asian American informal caregivers: an analysis by disaggregated ethnic groups

Qi, X., Wang, K., Pei, Y., Ðoàn, L. N., Yi, S. S., & Wu, B. (2025). Ethnicity and Health, 30(2), 232-253. 10.1080/13557858.2024.2430287

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Despite Asians being the fastest-growing ethnic group in the US, most studies have focused on Asian Americans as an aggregate racial/ethnic group. The burden of mental health problems is increasing among caregivers due to population aging, yet little is known about the distress experienced by Asian caregivers when examined by disaggregated ethnic groups. Methods: Using 2019–2020 California Health Interview Survey data, we examined disparities in psychological well-beings between non-Hispanic White and Asian American adult caregivers, with an emphasis on understudied Asian ethnic groups. Psychological distress was measured using the Kessler 6 scale, with scores ≥6 indicating mental distress and ≥13 indicating serious mental illness. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for socio-demographics, physical health, caregiving relationship, intensity of care, and care recipients’ characteristics. Results: The study included 8,722 caregivers (mean age, 58.7 years; 61.3% women; 14.1% Asian [379 Chinese, 260 Filipino, 167 Japanese, 138 South Asian, 105 Korean, 101 Vietnamese, 78 other Asian], 85.9% White). Overall, 26.8% had mental distress, and 8.5% had serious mental illness. Compared to White caregivers, Korean American caregivers had higher odds of mental distress (Odds Ratio [OR], 2.37; 95% CI, 1.47–3.82) and serious mental illness (OR, 2.15; 95% CI, 1.17–3.92), while Chinese (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.55–0.95) and Japanese (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.45–0.99) American caregivers had lower odds of mental distress. Korean American caregivers had the highest prevalence of mental distress (43.1%) and serious mental illness (15.3%), compared with White and other Asian American caregivers. Conclusion: Disaggregating data reveals significant mental health disparities among ethnic subgroups of Asian American caregivers. Tailored resources should address the distinct needs of ethnic subgroups of Asian American caregivers, considering language barriers, acculturation, and cultural norms that may exacerbate psychological distress.