Abstract: Statins is a kind of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, and have been widely used in primary and secondary prevention of coronary atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. However, the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus is correlated with long-term use of statins. Recent research shows that statins can affect pancreatic β cells, surrounding tissues and related genes, and then lead to new-onset diabetes mellitus. In this paper, research progress on the risk factors, pathological mechanisms and precaution measures of new-onset diabetes mellitus caused by statins are reviewed to provide basis for the rational application of statins, individual treatment of patients and the related basic researches.