1. What is the HOMA-IR Calculation?

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

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the HOMA-IR equation:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation estimates insulin resistance by calculating the product of fasting insulin and glucose levels, normalized by a constant factor.

3. Importance of HOMA-IR Calculation

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

4. Using the Calculator

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

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 standards.

Q2: How is HOMA-IR interpreted?
A: Higher values indicate greater insulin resistance. Values above 2.5-3.0 often suggest significant insulin resistance.

Q3: When should insulin and glucose be measured?
A: Both should be measured from a fasting blood sample (typically 8-12 hours fasting) for accurate results.

Q4: Are there limitations to HOMA-IR?
A: Yes, it's less accurate in people with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes, and doesn't account for variations in insulin secretion patterns.

Q5: Can HOMA-IR be used for diagnosis?
A: While useful for screening and research, it should not be used alone for clinical diagnosis without additional tests and clinical evaluation.