Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is increasing in prevalence, and is a potent risk factor for the development of atherosclerotic vascular disease and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Approximately 15—25% of patients presenting with ischaemic heart disease have a history of diabetes mellitus. This cohort of patients continues to be at heightened short and long-term risk. This review highlights the many proposed biological drivers that likely play a deterministic role in the cardiovascular outcome of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.