HOMA-IR Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate your Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) score based on your fasting insulin and glucose levels. This score is a common indicator of insulin sensitivity or resistance.
Understanding HOMA-IR
The Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is a widely used method to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function from fasting glucose and insulin concentrations. It's a simple, non-invasive tool that helps healthcare professionals assess an individual's risk for conditions like type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
How HOMA-IR is Calculated
The HOMA-IR index is derived from a mathematical model that estimates the balance between hepatic glucose output and insulin secretion. The formulas used are:
- If Fasting Glucose is in mg/dL:
HOMA-IR = (Fasting Insulin (µU/mL) × Fasting Glucose (mg/dL)) / 405 - If Fasting Glucose is in mmol/L:
HOMA-IR = (Fasting Insulin (µU/mL) × Fasting Glucose (mmol/L)) / 22.5
A higher HOMA-IR value indicates greater insulin resistance, meaning your body's cells are less responsive to the effects of insulin, requiring the pancreas to produce more insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
Interpreting Your HOMA-IR Score
While specific thresholds can vary slightly between populations and laboratories, general guidelines for interpreting HOMA-IR scores are:
- Optimal Insulin Sensitivity (Low Risk): HOMA-IR < 1.0
- Early Insulin Resistance (Moderate Risk): HOMA-IR between 1.0 and 1.9
- Significant Insulin Resistance (High Risk): HOMA-IR ≥ 2.0
- Very High Insulin Resistance: HOMA-IR ≥ 3.0
It's important to note that these are general guidelines. A HOMA-IR score should always be interpreted in the context of a full medical evaluation, including other clinical factors and laboratory tests. A healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate management strategies.
Why is HOMA-IR Important?
Insulin resistance is a key factor in the development of several chronic health conditions, including:
- Type 2 Diabetes: It's a precursor to the disease, as the pancreas eventually fails to produce enough insulin to overcome resistance.
- Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of conditions (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels) that increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Insulin resistance contributes to inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and dyslipidemia, all risk factors for heart disease.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Insulin resistance is common in women with PCOS and plays a role in its pathogenesis.
How to Use the Calculator
- Enter your Fasting Insulin level in µU/mL.
- Enter your Fasting Glucose level.
- Select the correct Glucose Unit (mg/dL or mmol/L) from the dropdown.
- Click "Calculate HOMA-IR" to see your estimated score and its interpretation.
Example Calculations:
Example 1 (Optimal):
- Fasting Insulin: 4 µU/mL
- Fasting Glucose: 80 mg/dL
- Calculation: (4 × 80) / 405 = 320 / 405 = 0.79
- Result: HOMA-IR = 0.79 (Optimal insulin sensitivity)
Example 2 (High Insulin Resistance):
- Fasting Insulin: 15 µU/mL
- Fasting Glucose: 110 mg/dL
- Calculation: (15 × 110) / 405 = 1650 / 405 = 4.07
- Result: HOMA-IR = 4.07 (High insulin resistance)
Example 3 (Using mmol/L):
- Fasting Insulin: 8 µU/mL
- Fasting Glucose: 5.0 mmol/L
- Calculation: (8 × 5.0) / 22.5 = 40 / 22.5 = 1.78
- Result: HOMA-IR = 1.78 (Early insulin resistance)
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.