Assessment of Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Changes in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease with well-recognized systemic effects, including an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular complications. Insulin resistance (IR) is considered a central mechanism contributing to this risk; however, the reliability of surrogate markers such as the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) remains uncertain in RA populations.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 180 participants, including 90 patients diagnosed with RA and 90 age-matched healthy individuals. Clinical characteristics such as body mass index (BMI) and disease activity assessed by the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) were recorded. Fasting blood samples were analyzed for glucose and insulin levels, and HOMA-IR was calculated. Statistical analyses included group comparisons and correlation assessments.

Results: Patients with RA demonstrated significantly higher BMI, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, and HOMA-IR levels compared to controls (p < 0.001 for all).

Conclusion: Although RA is associated with measurable metabolic disturbances, These findings confirm increased insulin resistance in RA patients as reflected by elevated HOMA-IR levels.