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Professional Technical IVT

HOMA-IR

Also written as: HOMA-IR — Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance

Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance, a mathematical model used to quantify insulin resistance and beta-cell function.

Full Definition

The Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is a widely used method to assess insulin resistance using fasting glucose and insulin levels. Developed in 1985, it provides a simple surrogate measure of insulin sensitivity that correlates well with glucose clamp studies. The formula calculates the product of fasting glucose and insulin divided by a constant, with higher values indicating greater insulin resistance. HOMA-IR is particularly useful in research settings and clinical practice for diabetes risk stratification.

Usage

Usage note: Always hyphenate; use all capitals for the acronym portion.

In Context

  • "The patient's HOMA-IR of 4.2 indicated significant insulin resistance requiring lifestyle intervention." — Clinical assessment report
  • "Baseline HOMA-IR values were measured before initiating metformin therapy." — Research protocol

Also known as

homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance index

Contrasted with

insulin sensitivity

Don't confuse with

HOMA-B QUICKI index

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