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

Objective 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. Methods 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. Results 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). Conclusion Elevated triglyceride levels independently predict increased fall risk in middle‐aged and older adults, warranting their consideration in fall prevention strategies.