1. What Is The HOMA-IR Index?

The HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance) is a method used to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function. It's calculated from fasting insulin and glucose levels.

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 formula estimates insulin resistance by assessing the relationship between fasting glucose and insulin levels.

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 disease.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter fasting insulin in μU/L and fasting glucose in mmol/L. Both values must be greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal HOMA-IR value?
A: Typically, values below 2.0 are considered normal, though this may vary by population and laboratory.

Q2: How should the blood samples be collected?
A: Samples should be collected after an 8-12 hour fast for accurate results.

Q3: Can HOMA-IR be used for diagnosis?
A: While useful for assessing insulin resistance, it should be used alongside other clinical assessments rather than as a standalone diagnostic tool.

Q4: Are there limitations to HOMA-IR?
A: The model assumes a specific relationship between insulin and glucose that may not hold true in all individuals, particularly those with extreme values.

Q5: How often should HOMA-IR be measured?
A: Frequency depends on clinical context, but it's typically used for initial assessment and periodic monitoring in at-risk populations.