Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed male sex (hazard ratio [HR] 4.692, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.352-9.357), serum albumin level (HR 0.368, 95% CI 0.151-0.898), cognitive ability for daily decision-making (HR 1.626 per one-point worsening on a four-point scale, 95% CI 1.082-2.444), and recent weight loss (≥ 3% over the past 6 months) (HR 2.645, 95% CI 1.195-5.858) as significant risk factors.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Male sex, lower serum albumin level, impaired cognitive ability for daily decision-making, and recent weight loss were associated with an increased risk of pneumonia. This evidence concerns the gene ALB and pneumonia.