The physiopathologic mechanisms underlying cardiovascular disease in diabetic patients are briefly reviewed. The use of inhibitors of platelet aggregation is discussed as being potentially valuable in the pharmacological prevention of this condition. Acetylsalisylic acid turns out to be the reference within the repertoire of currently available drugs since it has been extensively tested in clinical trials. We conclude by discussing the recommendations of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) concerning the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in diabetes mellitus.