Diabetes mellitus type 2 is characterized by hyperglicemia that determines chronic oxydative stress. The most important noxic mechanism oisease is peripherical insulin resistance wich can be reduced in the menopausal woman by estradiol preferably in low doses and by non oral routes. The association with micronized progesterone or dihidrogesterone in women with an intact uterus is recommended. The prevention of diabetes mellitus type 2 is based on life style modifications, particularly weight reduction and increased physical activity, and drugs.