1. What is the HOMA-IR Index?

The HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) index is a method used to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function. It provides a simple and reliable assessment of insulin sensitivity from fasting glucose and insulin measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the HOMA-IR formula:

Where:

• Fasting Insulin — Measured in μU/L (microinternational units per liter)
• Fasting Glucose — Measured in mmol/L (millimoles per liter)
• 22.5 — Normalization constant

Explanation: The equation estimates insulin resistance by assessing the relationship between fasting insulin and glucose levels. Higher values indicate greater insulin resistance.

3. Importance of HOMA-IR Calculation

Details: HOMA-IR is widely used in clinical research and practice to identify insulin resistance, which is associated with type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fasting insulin in μU/L and fasting glucose in mmol/L. Both values must be positive numbers obtained from fasting blood tests.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are normal HOMA-IR values?
A: Normal HOMA-IR values typically range from 0.5-1.4. Values above 2.0 indicate significant insulin resistance.

Q2: When should HOMA-IR be measured?
A: HOMA-IR should be calculated from fasting blood samples taken after an overnight fast of 8-12 hours.

Q3: Are there limitations to HOMA-IR?
A: While useful for population studies, HOMA-IR may be less accurate in individuals with extreme insulin resistance or beta-cell dysfunction.

Q4: Can HOMA-IR be used for diagnosis?
A: HOMA-IR is primarily used as a screening tool and research measure rather than a definitive diagnostic test.

Q5: How does HOMA-IR compare to other insulin resistance measures?
A: HOMA-IR correlates well with more complex measures like the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, but is simpler and less expensive to calculate.