Higher levels of lead and aluminium are associated with increased risk of falls among community‐dwelling older adults: An 18‐month follow‐up study

Aim The present study aims to determine the association of trace elements and oxidative and DNA damage biomarkers with fall incidence among community‐dwelling older adults. Methods This study is part of the Long‐term Research Grant Scheme – Towards Useful Ageing cohort study in Malaysia. Of a total of 174 participants with complete trace elements and oxidative and DNA damage data during baseline, only 147 (84.5%) were successfully followed up after 18 months. Participants who experienced any fall events in the previous 18 months during the follow‐up were categorized as fallers. Results Thirty participants (20.4%) reported at least one fall in the previous 18 months. The mean concentrations of aluminium, lead and zinc were significantly higher (P