Cai Xu

My research addresses public health challenges in cancer patients and aging populations. I leverage advanced computational methods, including machine learning and psychometric analysis, to enhance patient-centered care through patient-reported outcomes. I also study social determinants of aging, such as health behaviors, cognitive function, lifestyle, and insurance, to support successful aging and improve quality of life.

Selected Publications

• Xu C, Shelley M, Lee Y-H. Social Health Insurance Programs and Preventive Care Utilization Among Chinese Older Adults: Results From the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. International Journal of Social Determinants of Health and Health Services. 2025;0(0). doi: 10.1177/27551938251365076
• Xu, C., Subbiah, I.M., Lu, SC. et al. Machine learning models for 180-day mortality prediction of patients with advanced cancer using patient-reported symptom data. Qual Life Res 32, 713–727 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-022-03284-y
• Xu, C., Schaverien, M.V., Christensen, J.M. et al. Efficient and precise Ultra-QuickDASH scale measuring lymphedema impact developed using computerized adaptive testing. Qual Life Res 31, 917–925 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-021-02979-y

Summary of Work

My research focuses on three main areas: social issues related to the aging population; advanced computational techniques, including machine learning and advanced psychometric analyses of patient-reported outcome (PRO) data, to enhance patient-centered care; and health disparities among Hispanic populations.