Statement of the Problem

The Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation 2 Diabetes (BARI 2D) study poses 2 questions. Of the options in treating the hyperglycemia of type 2 diabetes mellitus, which, if either, would be best for decreasing the likelihood of death or a serious cardiovascular disease event such as a heart attack: correcting the relative insulin deficiency or reducing insulin resistance? Do individuals with diabetes whose coronary disease can be managed medically have a better outcome with initial medical or interventional (percutaneous intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting) treatment? This article outlines the reasons for asking these questions.