1. What is HOMA-IR and HOMA-B?

HOMA (Homeostatic Model Assessment) is a method used to quantify insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and beta-cell function (HOMA-B) from fasting insulin and glucose measurements. These indices help assess metabolic health and diabetes risk.

2. How Do the Calculators Work?

The calculator uses the HOMA equations:

Where:

• Fasting Insulin — Measured in μU/L
• Fasting Glucose — Measured in mmol/L
• 22.5 — Normalization constant for HOMA-IR
• 20 and 3.5 — Constants for HOMA-B calculation

Explanation: HOMA-IR estimates insulin resistance, while HOMA-B estimates pancreatic beta-cell function from fasting measurements.

3. Importance of HOMA Assessment

Details: These indices are valuable for assessing insulin sensitivity, identifying insulin resistance, evaluating beta-cell function, and monitoring metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fasting insulin in μU/L and fasting glucose in mmol/L. Both values must be positive. For HOMA-B calculation, glucose must be greater than 3.5 mmol/L.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are normal HOMA-IR values?
A: Normal HOMA-IR is typically below 2.0. Values above 2.5 suggest insulin resistance, and above 5.0 indicate significant insulin resistance.

Q2: What do HOMA-B values indicate?
A: HOMA-B values around 100% indicate normal beta-cell function. Lower values suggest impaired function, while higher values may indicate compensatory hyperinsulinemia.

Q3: When should these tests be performed?
A: After an overnight fast of 8-12 hours. Avoid testing after high-carbohydrate meals or during illness.

Q4: Are there limitations to HOMA calculations?
A: Yes, they are estimates based on fasting values and may not capture dynamic glucose-insulin relationships as well as more complex tests.

Q5: Can HOMA be used for diagnosis?
A: HOMA is a screening and research tool, not a diagnostic test. Clinical diagnosis should be based on established criteria and additional testing.