Lipid disorders in type 2 diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in men and women. Type 2 is the most prevalent form of DM and is associated with a two to threefold increased risk of CVD morbidity and mortality. Insulin resistance, the fundamental defect of type 2 DM, is associated with a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors, one of which is dyslipidemia. This article discusses CVD risk in DM, characteristics of the atherogenic dyslipidemia, screening for abnormal lipids, clinical trial evidence for treatment of hyperlipidemia, and treatment approaches.