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HOMA-IR Calculator

Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR)

Understanding HOMA-IR

The Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is a method used to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function. It's calculated using fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels. This simple tool helps clinicians assess a patient's insulin sensitivity and risk for type 2 diabetes.

What is HOMA-IR?

HOMA-IR was developed in 1985 by Matthews and colleagues as a simple method to estimate insulin resistance from fasting glucose and insulin concentrations. The model assumes that normal-weight healthy subjects aged less than 35 years have an insulin resistance of 1 and beta cell function of 100%.

Normal HOMA-IR Values

  • Less than 1.0: Indicates high insulin sensitivity
  • Between 1.0-1.9: Normal insulin sensitivity
  • Between 2.0-2.5: Early insulin resistance
  • Greater than 2.5: Significant insulin resistance
  • Greater than 5.0: Severe insulin resistance

Clinical Significance

Uses of HOMA-IR

  • Screening for insulin resistance
  • Monitoring diabetes treatment
  • Research studies
  • Population studies
  • Risk assessment for metabolic syndrome

High HOMA-IR Values May Indicate

  • Insulin resistance
  • Pre-diabetes
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Obesity

Important Considerations

  • Results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional
  • Fasting samples are required for accurate results
  • Values may vary between laboratories and populations
  • Not recommended as the sole diagnostic tool
  • Should be considered alongside other clinical findings

When to Calculate HOMA-IR

Consider HOMA-IR calculation when:

  1. Screening for insulin resistance
  2. Evaluating diabetes risk
  3. Monitoring treatment effectiveness
  4. Researching metabolic conditions
  5. Assessing metabolic syndrome risk

Limitations

This calculator:

  • Requires fasting blood samples
  • May not be accurate in all populations
  • Doesn't account for dynamic insulin response
  • Should not replace clinical judgment
  • May vary with different assay methods

Tips for Accurate Results

  1. Ensure proper fasting (8-12 hours)
  2. Use morning blood samples
  3. Avoid exercise before testing
  4. Report any medications
  5. Consider repeat testing if results are unexpected

Factors Affecting HOMA-IR

Modifiable factors

  • Body weight
  • Physical activity
  • Diet
  • Sleep patterns
  • Stress levels
  • Medications

Non-modifiable factors

  • Age
  • Genetics
  • Medical conditions
  • Hormonal status

Clinical Applications

HOMA-IR is particularly useful in:

  • Primary care screening
  • Diabetes prevention programs
  • Research studies
  • Treatment monitoring
  • Risk stratification

Calculate your HOMA-IR now to better understand your insulin sensitivity!

References:

  1. Matthews DR, Hosker JP, Rudenski AS, Naylor BA, Treacher DF, Turner RC. Homeostasis model assessment: insulin resistance and beta-cell function from fasting plasma glucose and insulin concentrations in man. Diabetologia. 1985;28(7):412-419.