The HOMA index is a measure that appears in the result of a blood test that is used to evaluate insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and pancreatic activity (HOMA-BETA), as well as to assist in the diagnosis of diabetes.
The word HOMA stands for Homeostasis Assessment Model and generally, when results are found due to reference values, it may be decided that there is a higher chance of developing cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes, for example.
- The HOMA index should be completed for at least 8 hours.
- It occurs from obtaining a small blood sample that should be sent to the laboratory for analysis and taking into account the concentration of glucose in the body as well as the amount of insulin produced by the body.
Normal HOMA index values for adults are generally
However, the reference values may vary depending on the laboratory in which the test is performed, in addition, in the case of children and adolescents, the person’s body has a very high body mass index, it is important to have a medical follow-up.
Normally, when homA values are higher than baseline, this means that there is insulin resistance, which is a dysfunction of pancreatic cells, which is an important organ in regulating the production of glucose, insulin and glucagon in the blood. Learn more about pancreatic functions.
Modified HOMA-IR BETA values may indicate the increased likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, which in most cases is accompanied by obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol reduction, low cholesterol reduction, carbohydrate intolerance, and the presence of fat plaques in the vessels, which can cause problems such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
In addition, HOMA index values can be changed in type 1 diabetes, which is decompensate in diabetic ketoacidosis, helping the doctor assess the patient’s health.
The HOMA index is determined by mathematical formulas related to insulin and blood sugar levels produced by the body, with calculations including:
Formula to evaluate insulin resistance (HOMA-IR): Blood glucose (mmol) x Insulin (p / ml) – 22. 5
Formula for evaluating the working capacity of pancreatic beta cells (HOMA-BETA): 20 x Insulin (p/ml) – (Glucemia – 3. 5)
The values must also be obtained in one case and in case the blood sugar is measured in mg / dL, it is necessary to apply the calculation before applying the following formula to obtain the value in mmol / L: blood sugar (mg / dL) x 0. 0555.