1. What is HOMA-IR?

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 blood glucose and insulin levels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the HOMA-IR formula:

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

Interpretation: Values less than 2.5 are generally considered normal, while higher values indicate increasing levels of insulin resistance.

3. Importance of HOMA-IR Calculation

Details: HOMA-IR is a simple, non-invasive method to assess insulin resistance, which is a key factor in metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease risk assessment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fasting insulin in μU/mL 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 2.5 are considered normal, though this may vary slightly between populations and laboratories.

Q2: When should I get my insulin levels tested?
A: Insulin testing is typically recommended when assessing for insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Q3: Are there limitations to the HOMA-IR calculation?
A: Yes, HOMA-IR is less accurate in people with type 1 diabetes, those with impaired beta-cell function, or when glucose or insulin levels are extremely high.

Q4: How should I prepare for the test?
A: You should fast for 8-12 hours before the blood draw and avoid medications that might affect glucose or insulin levels if possible.

Q5: Can HOMA-IR be used to diagnose diabetes?
A: While HOMA-IR assesses insulin resistance, diabetes diagnosis is primarily based on fasting glucose, HbA1c, or oral glucose tolerance test results.