1. What is HOMA-IR?

HOMA-IR (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance) is a method used to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function 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 μU/mL
• Fasting Glucose — Measured in mg/dL

Explanation: The formula provides a simple way to estimate insulin resistance using fasting blood measurements.

3. Importance of HOMA-IR Calculation

Details: HOMA-IR is a valuable tool for assessing insulin resistance, which is associated with various metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter fasting insulin in μU/mL and fasting glucose in mg/dL. 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 1.0 indicate normal insulin sensitivity, while values above 2.0 suggest significant insulin resistance.

Q2: When should HOMA-IR testing be done?
A: Testing should be performed after an overnight fast of 8-12 hours for accurate results.

Q3: Are there limitations to HOMA-IR?
A: While useful for population studies, HOMA-IR may not be as accurate as more sophisticated tests like hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp for individual assessment.

Q4: Can HOMA-IR be used to diagnose diabetes?
A: HOMA-IR assesses insulin resistance but is not a diagnostic tool for diabetes. Diagnosis should be based on established criteria including fasting glucose and HbA1c levels.

Q5: How often should HOMA-IR be measured?
A: Frequency depends on individual risk factors and clinical context. Generally, it's measured as part of metabolic health assessments or when monitoring treatment response.