Vascular calcification (VC) is widespread in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), and it is a characteristic change in the process of diabetic vascular lesions. VC is also an independent risk factor for increased risk of clinical adverse cardiovascular events. At present, the mechanism of VC formation in patients with DM has not been fully elucidated. Further exploration of the common pathogenesis and internal relationship between them is expected to provide new ideas for the prevention of cardiovascular complications in patients with DM. This article will review the common pathogenesis of DM and VC, and provide ideas for further research and clinical prevention and treatment of DM and VC.