Q: How many days of CGM data are needed for Time in Range?

For pattern management, current ADA guidance recommends at least 14 days of CGM wear with about 70% of the data available .(( American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. “6. Glycemic Goals, Hypoglycemia, and Hyperglycemic Crises: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026.” Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Supplement 1)–S149.))

Question 1

What is a good Time in Range for diabetes?

Accepted Answer

For many nonpregnant adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, a common goal is to spend more than 70% of the time between 70 and 180 mg/dL.((American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. “6. Glycemic Goals, Hypoglycemia, and Hyperglycemic Crises: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026.” Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Supplement 1)–S149.)) Targets should be individualized.

Question 2

Is 70% Time in Range equal to a 7% A1C?

Accepted Answer

Not exactly. Research shows that 70% TIR often corresponds approximately to an A1C around 7%, but there can be substantial individual variation.((Battelino T, Danne T, Bergenstal RM, et al. “Clinical Targets for Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data Interpretation: Recommendations From the International Consensus on Time in Range.” Diabetes Care. 2019;42(8):1593–1603.))

Question 3

Can you have a good A1C but poor Time in Range?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Frequent highs and lows can average out to an acceptable A1C. TIR and related CGM metrics can reveal glucose variability that A1C alone cannot show.

Question 4

Does Time in Range replace A1C?

Accepted Answer

No. TIR complements A1C rather than replacing it. A1C remains useful for longer-term assessment and diagnosis, while TIR provides more detail about everyday glucose patterns.

Question 5

How many days of CGM data are needed for Time in Range?

Accepted Answer

For pattern management, current ADA guidance recommends at least 14 days of CGM wear with about 70% of the data available.((American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. “6. Glycemic Goals, Hypoglycemia, and Hyperglycemic Crises: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026.” Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Supplement 1)–S149.))

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