Mattel has introduced a new Barbie doll that represents a child living with Type 1 diabetes. This marks the first time the popular toy has included diabetes-related medical gear as part of its design.
The doll is now part of Barbie's "Fashionistas" line, which celebrates diversity and inclusion through various appearances and conditions.
According to AP, the company partnered with Breakthrough T1D, formerly known as JDRF, to ensure the new doll reflects the real experiences of people with Type 1 diabetes.
According to Mattel, the goal was to create a doll that children living with the condition could identify with and feel proud of.
The new Barbie comes with realistic accessories, including a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm, an insulin pump on her waist, and a smartphone showing a CGM app.
She carries a blue purse with her, often filled with snacks or medical essentials.
Her blue polka dot outfit isn't just stylish—it's also a quiet tribute to diabetes awareness.
"Visibility matters for everyone facing Type 1 diabetes," said Emily Mazreku, director of marketing strategy at Breakthrough T1D. "As a mom living with T1D, it means everything to have Barbie helping the world see people with this condition."
Barbie is launching its first doll with Type 1 diabetes, Mattel announces.
— Pop Base (@PopBase) July 9, 2025
The doll will sport a glucose monitor and insulin pump. pic.twitter.com/u2XWdDJmhX
Mattel Unveils Inclusive Barbie at T1D Children's Congress
Krista Berger, Mattel's senior vice president and global head of dolls, said the company is focused on making dolls that help all children feel seen.
"Barbie helps shape children's early perceptions of the world," Berger said.
"By reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love."
The latest doll was unveiled this week at the 2025 Breakthrough T1D Children's Congress in Washington, DC.
The event brings together over 100 kids with Type 1 diabetes to meet lawmakers and push for continued federal funding of diabetes research. Mattel donated dolls to the children attending the event.
The CDC reports that around 2 million people in the US have Type 1 diabetes, with more than 300,000 of them being kids and teens.
This new Barbie doll offers a fresh way for those children to feel represented and empowered.
You can now find the Type 1 diabetes Barbie in stores and online for $10.99. It's available at major retailers like Walmart and Amazon, as well as on Mattel's official website, USA Today said.
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