Mattel Launches First Barbie Doll Representing Type 1 Diabetes
In a significant move towards inclusivity, Mattel has unveiled its inaugural Barbie doll designed to represent individuals living with Type 1 diabetes. This initiative is part of the toy company's ongoing commitment to broaden the diversity of its doll collection.
The announcement came as Mattel revealed its collaboration with Breakthrough T1D, an organization dedicated to Type 1 diabetes research and advocacy. The partnership aims to ensure that the doll's design authentically reflects the experiences of the Type 1 diabetes community, incorporating realistic accessories that represent the medical devices commonly used by those managing the condition.
Emily Mazreku, the director of marketing strategy at Breakthrough T1D, emphasized the importance of visibility for individuals with Type 1 diabetes. She noted that having a Barbie that highlights this condition helps raise awareness and fosters understanding of the daily challenges faced by those who live with it.
The newly released Barbie doll is equipped with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm, which serves to track blood sugar levels, along with an insulin pump attached to her waist. Additionally, the doll features a blue purse designed to carry essential supplies and snacks, making it a practical representation of the lifestyle of those managing diabetes.
Her outfit reflects diabetes awareness, incorporating blue polka dots on a matching top and skirt, symbolizing the community's fight against this chronic condition.
This introduction aligns with Mattel's broader Fashionistas line, which aims to represent a range of identities, body types, and abilities. Over the years, this line has included dolls with diverse skin tones, various hair colors and textures, disabilities, and even designs such as a Ken doll with a prosthetic leg and a Barbie wearing hearing aids. Notably, 2023 saw the introduction of the first Barbie doll with Down syndrome.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes affects approximately 38.4 million Americans, representing about 11.6% of the U.S. population. Among these, around 2 million individuals have Type 1 diabetes, including approximately 304,000 children and teenagers under the age of 20.
The Type 1 diabetes Barbie doll was officially revealed during Breakthrough T1D's 2025 Children's Congress held in Washington, D.C. This event focused on advocating for ongoing federal funding for diabetes research, with particular emphasis on the Special Diabetes Program, which is set to expire in September.
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