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

High throughput DNA sequencing to detect differences in the subgingival plaque microbiome in elderly subjects with and without dementia

Cockburn, A. F., Dehlin, J. M., Ngan, T., Crout, R., Boskovic, G., Denvir, J., Primerano, D., Plassman, B. L., Wu, B., & Cuff, C. F. (2012). Investigative Genetics, 3(1). 10.1186/2041-2223-3-19

Abstract

Abstract

Background: To investigate the potential association between oral health and cognitive function, a pilot study was conducted to evaluate high throughput DNA sequencing of the V3 region of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene for determining the relative abundance of bacterial taxa in subgingival plaque from older adults with or without dementia.Methods: Subgingival plaque samples were obtained from ten individuals at least 70 years old who participated in a study to assess oral health and cognitive function. DNA was isolated from the samples and a gene segment from the V3 portion of the 16S bacterial ribosomal RNA gene was amplified and sequenced using an Illumina HiSeq1000 DNA sequencer. Bacterial populations found in the subgingival plaque were identified and assessed with respect to the cognitive status and oral health of the participants who provided the samples.Results: More than two million high quality DNA sequences were obtained from each sample. Individuals differed greatly in the mix of phylotypes, but different sites from different subgingival depths in the same subject were usually similar. No consistent differences were observed in this small sample between subjects separated by levels of oral health, sex, or age; however a consistently higher level of Fusobacteriaceae and a generally lower level of Prevotellaceae was seen in subjects without dementia, although the difference did not reach statistical significance, possibly because of the small sample size.Conclusions: The results from this pilot study provide suggestive evidence that alterations in the subgingival microbiome are associated with changes in cognitive function, and provide support for an expanded analysis of the role of the oral microbiome in dementia.

Hygiene self-care of older adults in West Virginia: effects of gender.

Wiener, R. C., Wu, B., Crout, R. J., Plassman, B. L., McNeil, D. W., Wiener, M. A., Kao, E., & Caplan, D. J. (2012). Journal of Dental Hygiene : JDH American Dental Hygienists’ Association, 86(3), 231-238.

Abstract

Abstract

This study investigated whether oral hygiene self-care behavior differs between genders in older adults in Appalachia, a geographic area with significant oral health concerns. Identify ing the practices of older adults may provide valuable information for designing interventions and improving overall oral health outcomes. As part of a larger, on-going study on cognition and oral health in later life in Appalachia, a sample of dentate, older adults without dementia aged 70 and above (n=245, 86 men and 159 women) received an oral assessment by either a dentist or dental hygienist. Psychometricians assessed cognition using a standardized battery of neuropsychological tests. They also administered the General Oral Health Assessment Index and conducted structured interviews concerning diet, oral hygiene practices, oral health, social support, income and years of education Results: Over 80% of women (n=128) and 52.3% of men (n=45) reported brushing their teeth twice daily. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted, controlling for socioeconomic status, social support (i.e., frequency of contacting friends and relatives), general oral health assessment items, number of decayed, missing and filled surfaces, plaque index and having regular dental visits. The results showed that women reported more frequent tooth brushing than their male counterparts (OR=4.04, 95% CI:1.93,8.42). Older women in West Virginia had significantly better oral hygiene practices than older men, particularly regarding tooth brushing. Interventions are needed to improve older men's dental hygiene behaviors to improve overall oral health outcomes.

Intensity of grandparent caregiving and life satisfaction among rural Chinese older adults: A longitudinal study using latent difference score analysis

Xu, L., Wu, B., Chi, I., & Hsiao, H. Y. (2012). Family and Community Health, 35(4), 287-299. 10.1097/FCH.0b013e31826665d0

Abstract

Abstract

This study examined how life satisfaction and grandparent caregiving intensity changed over time among rural Chinese older adults, and whether there was a leading predictor between grandparent caregiving intensity and life satisfaction. Using 4 waves of data from the Well-being of Elderly in Anhui Province of China (N = 1704), we applied latent difference score analysis to explore this relationship. Results indicated that grandparent caregiving intensity decreased and life satisfaction increased over time. There was a lagged effect between grandparent caregiving intensity and life satisfaction, and life satisfaction demonstrated a leading prediction role between these 2 variables. This study confirmed the potentially rewarding aspect of grandparent caregiving, which may lead to greater life satisfaction. The results also revealed that psychological well-being among grandparents is very important for performing activities, such as caregiving.

Oral health related quality of life among older adults in central china

Zhou, Y., Zhang, M., Jiang, H., Wu, B., & Du, M. (2012). Community Dental Health, 29(3), 219-223. 10.1922/CDH_2783Du05

Abstract

Abstract

Aim: To obtain information about the impact of oral health status on the quality of life in older adults in Central China, and furthermore,to investigate the influence of various demographic and socio-economic factors on oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL). Methods: This study comprised a stratified random sample of 1,000 older adults in Central China. Questionnaires including demographic factors, education and income level, denture wearing status and Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-14 were used in a face-to-face interview. Results: Of the study population 82% stated that they had some forms of problems related to their quality of life. The mean value of the simple count and single summary item scores for OHIP-14 were 0.47 (sd 0.50) and 6.83 (sd 6.84) respectively for the entire study population. "Uncomfortable to eat" and "taste worse" were the two most common problems reported using the simple count method for OHIP-14, while the "physical pain" being the highest scored domain of the measure. When the effect of all independent variables was analysed in multivariate analysis, education level and denture wearing status were significantly (p<0.05) associated with the OHRQoL measure. Conclusions: In this Chinese older adult sample, education level and denture wearing status were related to having oral problems as estimated using the OHIP-14.

Prevention of cognitive impairment: Physician perceptions and practices

Day, K. L., Friedman, D. B., Laditka, J. N., Anderson, L. A., Hunter, R., Laditka, S. B., Wu, B., McGuire, L. C., & Coy, M. C. (2012). Journal of Applied Gerontology, 31(6), 743-754. 10.1177/0733464811401354

Abstract

Abstract

The public is increasingly inundated with suggestions on how they can reduce their risk of developing cognitive impairment or dementia and are turning to physicians for advice. This study examines physicians' perceptions and practices related to reducing cognitive impairment or dementia risk. Data from Porter Novelli's 2008 DocStyles survey are used to examine physicians' perceptions and practices related to this issue. About 40% of physicians reported discussing concerns about cognitive impairment often or very often with adult patients without dementia. The majority advised patients to reduce risk through physical activity, mental stimulation, and healthy diet. These data shed light on physicians' perceptions and practices related to reducing cognitive impairmentrisk among their patients. Increased information about this issue may inform development of and access to educational materials to meet physicians' needs to address patient concerns related to reducing cognitive impairment or dementia risk.

Can the New Cooperative Medical Scheme promote rural elders' access to health-care services?

Dai, B., Zhou, J., Mei, Y. J., Wu, B., & Mao, Z. (2011). Geriatrics and Gerontology International, 11(3), 239-245. 10.1111/j.1447-0594.2011.00702.x

Abstract

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of the New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS) on rural elders' access to health-care services. Articles were identified from PubMed, Elsevier, Wiley, EBSCO, EMBASE, SCI Expanded, ProQuest, Google, and CNKI which is the most informative database in Chinese, with the search terms "rural", "China", "old", "older", or "elder", "elderly", or "aged", "aging", "medical insurance", or "community-based medical insurance", or "cooperative medical scheme". Related websites and yearbooks were searched as well. The NCMS has improved the health-care utilization of rural elders, and they have the highest satisfaction with it among all age groups. However, affordability difficulty remained the common barrier for the rural elderly to access quality health care, in spite of the special considerations given to the rural elderly, such as premium remission and free check-ups. Faced with ever-growing health challenges, some impoverished rural elders with poor physical health and functional limitations may lack sufficient access to basic health-care services. Followed by the provider payment reform initiated by the NCMS, a stricter regulation for doctors' prescriptions, clinical practice and disease management is needed to promote rural elders' access to health-care services. Health management for rural elders can be expected for the NCMS to promote rural elders' health-care access once a better coordination between the NCMS and health-care system can be achieved.

Differences in self-reported oral health among community-dwelling black, hispanic, and white elders

Wu, B., Plassman, B. L., Liang, J., Remle, R. C., Bai, L., & Crout, R. J. (2011). Journal of Aging and Health, 23(2), 267-288. 10.1177/0898264310382135

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives: To compare differences in self-rated oral health among community-dwelling Black, Hispanic, and White adults aged 60 and older. Method: A total of 4,859 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999-2004) provided self-report information on oral health. Results: Blacks and Hispanics reported poorer self-rated oral health than Whites. In separate dentate and edentulous groups, socioeconomic status, social support, physical health, clinical oral health outcomes, and dental checkups accounted for much of the difference in self-rated oral health in Blacks, but significant differences remained for Hispanics. Discussion: The study findings may have important implications for health policy and program development. Programs and services designed for minority populations should target treatments for dental diseases and include components that take into account subjective evaluations of oral health conditions and perceived dental needs of the individuals.

Ethnically diverse older adults' beliefs about staying mentally sharp

Friedman, D. B., Laditka, S. B., Laditka, J. N., Wu, B., Liu, R., Price, A. E., Tseng, W., Corwin, S. J., Ivey, S. L., Hunter, R., & Sharkey, J. R. (2011). International Journal of Aging and Human Development, 73(1), 27-52. 10.2190/AG.73.1.b

Abstract

Abstract

This study examined diverse older adults' (n = 396, ages 50+) views about how to stay mentally sharp. We conducted 42 focus groups in four languages at nine United States locations using a standardized discussion guide and methods. The groups represented African Americans, American Indians, Chinese Americans, Latinos, Whites other than Latinos, and Vietnamese Americans. All groups mentioned benefits of social interaction. All groups, especially Chinese and African Americans, mentioned benefits of community engagement. Participants in all groups expressed their belief that mental stimulation, particularly reading, promoted cognitive health; African Americans and Whites were especially likely to say that mental exercises (e.g., puzzles) were useful. Results suggest opportunities for education about potential cognitive health benefits of being socially connected through senior center activities and volunteer programs.

How can we maintain oral health in the elderly?

Wu, B. (2011). Aging Health, 7(4), 509-511. 10.2217/ahe.11.40

Older adults' concerns about cognitive health: Commonalities and differences among six United States ethnic groups

Laditka, J. N., Laditka, S. B., Liu, R., Price, A. E., Wu, B., Friedman, D. B., Corwin, S. J., Sharkey, J. R., Tseng, W., Hunter, R., & Logsdon, R. G. (2011). Ageing and Society, 31(7), 1202-1228. 10.1017/S0144686X10001273

Abstract

Abstract

We studied concerns about cognitive health among ethnically diverse groups of older adults. The study was grounded in theories of health behaviour and the representation of health and illness. We conducted 42 focus groups (N=396, ages 50+) in four languages, with African Americans, American Indians, Chinese Americans, Latinos, Whites other than Latinos (hereafter, Whites) and Vietnamese Americans, in nine United States locations. Participants discussed concerns about keeping their memory or ability to think as they age. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim. Constant comparison methods identified themes. In findings, all ethnic groups expressed concern and fear about memory loss, losing independence, and becoming a burden. Knowing someone with Alzheimer's disease increased concern. American Indians, Chinese Americans, Latinos and Vietnamese Americans expected memory loss. American Indians, Chinese Americans and Vietnamese Americans were concerned about stigma associated with Alzheimer's disease. Only African Americans, Chinese and Whites expressed concern about genetic risks. Only African Americans and Whites expressed concern about behaviour changes. Although we asked participants for their thoughts about their ability to think as they age, they focused almost exclusively on memory. This suggests that health education promoting cognitive health should focus on memory, but should also educate the public about the importance of maintaining all aspects of cognitive health.