Barbie Unveils Doll Representing Type 1 Diabetes to Encourage Inclusivity in Kids
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2021, there were 304,000 youth diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Aiming to enhance visibility and representation regarding this medical condition, Mattel teamed up with Breakthrough T1D, an organization focused on research and advocacy for type 1 diabetes, to introduce the inaugural Barbie doll representing type 1 diabetes.
The new Barbie has two main goals: to enable children with type 1 diabetes to see themselves in the toys they interact with; and to broaden the public perception of individuals living with this condition, with the hope of nurturing acceptance and understanding. The doll will become part of Barbie’s worldwide Fashionistas collection, which includes over 175 dolls showcasing various skin tones, eye colors, hair textures, body types, disabilities, and fashion styles.
Breakthrough T1D collaborated with Mattel to authentically represent the medical devices utilized by individuals with type 1 diabetes, alongside the doll’s appearance. Most notably, this Barbie features a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) secured with heart-shaped medical tape on her arm. These gadgets keep track of a person’s blood sugar levels throughout the day, sometimes aided by a smartphone app—similar to the one displayed on Barbie’s device.
Secured to the doll’s waist is a compact insulin pump, delivering automatic insulin doses as required. Her polka-dot attire pays tribute to the blue circle, a global symbol signifying diabetes awareness. Additionally, Barbie comes equipped with a handbag to hold snacks and other medical supplies necessary for maintaining her blood sugar levels.
“We were overjoyed when Barbie reached out to partner with us in creating the Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes,” states Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., CEO of Breakthrough T1D. “Having lived with T1D since the age of 13 and my brother since age 3, this collaboration is profoundly personal—it’s incredibly meaningful to be involved in providing greater visibility for a condition that impacts so many families. It’s a privilege to partner with a brand aligned with our mission of demonstrating to children that life with type 1 diabetes can be fulfilling, vibrant, and empowering.”
Mattel provided the first Barbies with type 1 diabetes to young participants at the Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children’s Congress. During this event, patients aged 4 to 17 advocated for scientists pursuing a cure for type 1 diabetes among lawmakers. The Barbie with type 1 diabetes is also available for the general public and can be found on Mattel’s online store, as well as at retailers such as Walmart and Amazon.
Mattel joined forces with Breakthrough T1D, a research and advocacy group for type 1 diabetes, to create the first-ever Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes.
This Barbie features a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) equipped with heart-shaped medical tape on her arm.
Connected to the doll’s waist is a small insulin pump, offering patients automated insulin delivery as needed.
Her polka dot ensemble references the blue circle, a global symbol advocating for diabetes awareness.
The doll will integrate into Barbie’s worldwide Fashionistas collection, which includes over 175 dolls representing diverse skin tones, eye colors, hair textures, body types, disabilities, and fashion styles.
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