Assessment of insulin resistance using the HOMA index: a comparative approach between premenopausal and postmenopausal women

Abstract

Introduction: menopause exerts a marked influence on Insulin Resistance (IR). The homeostatic model for assessing insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) is a proven effective and useful clinical tool. This study analyzed the scientific data that allows understand the differences, underlying factors and implications in the detection of this condition in these two stages of a woman's life. Methods: a systematic review was performed in Google Scholar, Scopus and PubMed using key terms such as Insulin Resistance Assessment, HOMA Index, HOMA-IR, Premenopausal women, Postmenopausal women, Menopause and Comparative Study. The search was limited to English language articles published in the last five years, which were analyzed according to PRISMA methodology. Results: eight studies were evaluated, 50 % focused on postmenopausal women, 25 % on premenopausal women and another 25 % both stages. The studies showed a higher body mass index in postmenopausal women, associated with 34,2 % of insulin resistance in this population. In all studies, HOMA-IR and Body Mass Index (BMI) were evaluated, and 87,5 % included lipid profile. In addition, 12,5 % suggested innovative metrics such as Triglyceride to Glucose Index (TGI) and Galactin-3 Binding Protein (Gal-3BP) as new biomarkers. Conclusion: assessment of insulin resistance with HOMA-IR is common, but the results reveal remarkable variations among the stages analyzed. Recognizing hormonal and metabolic differences is essential to improve accuracy and guide preventive strategies in the management of IR