Time in Range — the percentage of time your glucose levels spend within a target range — is rapidly becoming the most important metric in modern diabetes management. Unlike HbA1c, it captures the quality of glucose control, not just the average, and provides actionable daily feedback.
What Is Time in Range?
Time in Range (TIR) measures the percentage of time over a given period (typically 14 days) that your continuous glucose monitor (CGM) readings fall within a target range. The internationally agreed standard target range for most people with diabetes is 3.9–10.0 mmol/L (70–180 mg/dL).
The consensus targets, established by the Advanced Technologies and Treatments for Diabetes (ATTD) congress, recommend:
| Population | TIR Target | Time Below Range (<3.9) |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes | >70% (>16.8 hours/day) | <4% |
| Older adults / high-risk individuals | >50% | <1% |
| Pregnancy (T1D) | >70% (3.5–7.8 mmol/L) | <4% |
Why TIR Matters More Than HbA1c Alone
HbA1c provides an average that can mask dangerous glucose variability. Two people with an identical HbA1c of 7.0% may have very different glucose profiles: one with stable, consistent levels and another with frequent swings between hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia. TIR distinguishes between these two scenarios and is therefore a more complete measure of glycaemic quality.
Research has demonstrated that higher TIR is independently associated with reduced risk of diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular complications. Each 10% increase in TIR corresponds to a clinically meaningful reduction in complication risk.
ℹ️ How to Improve Your TIR
The strategies that improve TIR are the same as those that improve overall glucose control: reducing refined carbohydrate intake, increasing physical activity (particularly post-meal walks), optimising medication, improving sleep quality, and managing stress. A CGM is essential for tracking TIR and identifying the specific behaviours and meals that most affect your glucose profile.
✅ Key Takeaway
Time in Range is a more nuanced and actionable measure of glucose control than HbA1c alone. Aiming for more than 70% TIR, while keeping time below range under 4%, provides a clear and evidence-based target for daily management. If you use a CGM, make TIR a central focus of your diabetes conversations with your healthcare team.
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