Understanding HOMA-IR: The Gold Standard for Insulin Resistance Measurement
The Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is the most widely used method to quantify insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic health. Our calculator provides accurate HOMA-IR scores to help you assess your risk for prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
How HOMA-IR is Calculated:
The HOMA-IR formula is: (Fasting Glucose [mg/dL] × Fasting Insulin [μU/mL]) ÷ 405
This equation estimates how well your body uses insulin to control blood glucose levels. Higher scores indicate greater insulin resistance.
HOMA-IR Score Interpretation:
- • Normal insulin sensitivity: < 1.0 - Indicates healthy insulin function
- • Mild Insulin Resistance: 1.0 - 1.9 - Early warning of metabolic issues
- • Significant Insulin Resistance: 2.0 - 2.9 - Increased diabetes risk
- • Severe Insulin Resistance: ≥ 3.0 - High risk for metabolic disorders
Clinical Importance of HOMA-IR:
- • Recognized by the World Health Organization for insulin resistance assessment
- • Used in hundreds of clinical studies worldwide
- • Helps predict development of type 2 diabetes years before onset
- • Correlates with cardiovascular disease risk factors
When to Test Your HOMA-IR?
Consider calculating your HOMA-IR if you have:
- • Family history of diabetes
- • Elevated blood sugar levels
- • PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- • Signs of metabolic syndrome
- • Unexplained weight gain
For best results, test after an 8-12 hour fast and repeat periodically to track changes.