Diabetes is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, with atherosclerosis responsible for most associated morbidity and mortality. Atherosclerosis often causes acute thrombotic events through plaque rupture and formation of platelet-rich thrombi. The principal clinical manifestations of atherosclerosis are coronary artery disease, ischemic stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and low-grade inflammation are key features in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.