Table 1 Criteria for studies in which simple indices of insulin resistance may be used.

1.

Large clinical practice and epidemiological investigations [70].

2.

Where the assessment of direct IR is not required.

3.

Where the outcome of IR is of secondary interest [71].

4.

Where the requirements of reference techniques are not available e.g equipments, trained staff, enough budget.

5.

Where a new simple index is under evaluation [72, 73].

6.

Investigating validity and pitfalls of simple indices in specific clinical conditions [41, 57].