Elevated Serum Triglycerides Independently Predict Incident Falls in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Falls represent a significant public health concern among older adults, with metabolic syndrome, including elevated triglyceride levels, implicated as a potential risk factor. This study examined the prospective association between serum triglyceride levels and incident falls in a large cohort.

Data from 6158 participants aged ≥ 45 years in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS; 2011-2020) were analyzed. Serum triglycerides were quantified via enzymatic colorimetric assay and categorized as normal (< 150 mg/dL), borderline high (150-199 mg/dL), or high (≥ 200 mg/dL). Incident falls were self-reported during follow-up. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models evaluated associations, with restricted cubic spline analyses assessing dose-response relationships. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses investigated effect modification and robustness.

Over a median nine-year follow-up, 2094 (34%) participants reported falls. High triglyceride levels were independently associated with elevated fall risk (adjusted HR 1.203, 95% CI: 1.067-1.357), exhibiting a linear dose response (P for linearity = 0.007). Borderline high levels showed no significant association. Sensitivity analyses excluding participants with baseline fall history (HR 1.264, 95% CI: 1.103-1.449) or falls within the first 2 years (HR 1.173, 95% CI: 1.019-1.351) confirmed robustness. Subgroup analyses revealed stronger associations among those without hypertension, dyslipidemia, heart disease, or stroke, though no significant interactions were observed (all p > 0.05).

Elevated triglyceride levels independently predict increased fall risk in middle-aged and older adults, warranting their consideration in fall prevention strategies.