Insulin resistance is associated with an increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. While the HOMA-IR index is not one of the primary diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome, it is used as an additional laboratory test. HOMA-IR provides more informative insights compared to glucose or insulin levels alone when evaluating the risk of diabetes in patients with glucose levels below 7 mmol/L.
Key Associations:
- Chronic Hepatitis C: Insulin resistance is more common in patients with this condition. These patients typically have a poorer response to treatment, making the correction of insulin resistance an important therapeutic goal.
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Increased insulin resistance is also observed in patients with NAFLD, further linking it to metabolic health issues.
The use of insulin resistance indicators such as HOMA-IR helps in early detection, risk assessment, and treatment planning for patients at risk of diabetes or related complications.
- The test is conducted on a blood sample collected from a vein.
- Fasting for 8–14 hours is required before the test.
- Avoid physical exertion, emotional stress, and alcohol consumption prior to the test.
- Assessment and monitoring of insulin resistance dynamics in patients with:
- Obesity.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Chronic hepatitis C.
- Diabetes mellitus.
- Evaluation of cardiovascular and diabetes risk
Increased HOMA-IR Levels:
- Indicates heightened insulin resistance.
- Suggests an elevated risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.