Insulin Resistance

33 Azn

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.