After understanding the core metrics of CGM, let’s look at how people in different groups should set their glucose management targets.
The following recommendations are mainly based on the ADA 2023 Standards of Care and the International CGM Consensus (2019). For pregnancy, refer to pregnancy-specific consensus/ADA guidance because targets and evidence are evolving.
General Adults (Type 1 / Type 2 Diabetes)
- Target glucose range: 70–180 mg/dL (3.9–10.0 mmol/L)
- TIR (Time in Range): ≥70%
- TAR (Time Above Range):
- 182–250 mg/dL (10.1–13.9 mmol/L): <25%
- ≥250 mg/dL (≥13.9 mmol/L): <5%
- TBR (Time Below Range):
- <70 mg/dL (<3.9 mmol/L): <4%
- <54 mg/dL (<3.0 mmol/L): <1%
Older Adults / High-Risk Individuals
(Patients with multiple complications, comorbidities, or those requiring long-term care)
- Target glucose range: 70–180 mg/dL (3.9–10.0 mmol/L) — individualized.
- TIR: ≈50% (70–180 mg/dL) — less stringent goals may be appropriate when avoiding hypoglycemia is paramount.
- TAR (may be relaxed, but avoid prolonged hyperglycemia):
- 182–250 mg/dL (10.1–13.9 mmol/L): <50%
- ≥250 mg/dL (≥13.9 mmol/L): <10%
- TBR (avoidance of hypoglycemia is the top priority):
- <70 mg/dL (<3.9 mmol/L): <1%
- <54 mg/dL (<3.0 mmol/L): 0%
Pregnancy (Gestational Diabetes; Type 1 or Type 2 with Pregnancy)
- Target glucose range: 63–140 mg/dL (3.5–7.8 mmol/L)
- TIR:
- Type 1 diabetes in pregnancy: >70% (target range above).
- Type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes in pregnancy: some experts suggest higher TIR goals (e.g., >90% or more) when achievable without hypoglycemia, but this is not universally prescriptive — individualize with your care team.
- TAR:
- 140 mg/dL (>7.8 mmol/L): <25%
- ≥180 mg/dL (≥10.0 mmol/L): <5%
- TBR:
- <63 mg/dL (<3.5 mmol/L): <4%
- <54 mg/dL (<3.0 mmol/L): <1%
Children and Adolescents
- Target glucose range: 70–180 mg/dL (3.9–10.0 mmol/L)
- TIR: >70%
- TAR:
- 182–250 mg/dL (10.1–13.9 mmol/L): <25%
- ≥250 mg/dL (≥13.9 mmol/L): <5%
- TBR: Avoiding severe hypoglycemia is especially important in children and adolescents because of its potential effects on brain development.
- <70 mg/dL (<3.9 mmol/L): <4%
- <54 mg/dL (<3.0 mmol/L): <1%
Takeaway
Glucose management should be individualized. Always consult your healthcare provider to set targets that best fit your health status and daily life. Your clinician can help interpret CGM data and adjust your plan accordingly.
