Mattel, Inc. is debuting the first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes, a disease that afflicts an estimated 38.4 million people in the U.S., according to the American Diabetes Assn. Of those, about 304,000 are children and adolescents.
The toy company hopes to enable more children to see themselves reflected in the new Barbie.
The idea is to foster “a greater sense of inclusion and empathy — all pillars of the Barbie brand’s mission,” a company said in a statement.
“Introducing a Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes marks an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation,” said Krista Berger, who carries the title of senior vice president of Barbie and global head of dolls.
“Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love,” she added.
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The doll was designed in conjunction with Breakthrough T1D, a global diabetes research and advocacy organization. The research group was consulted on the doll’s look, Mattel said.
Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin, resulting in health complications.
The doll wears a Continuous Glucose Monitor to check blood-sugar levels and has an insulin pump attached to her waist. Her polka dot top and matching blue and circle print are symbolic of diabetes awareness.
Mattel donated Barbie dolls to the Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children’s Congress, which brings 170 children living with type 1 diabetesmages 4-17 to Washington, DC, to meet face-to-face with members of Congress.
The Barbie dolls with Type 1 diabetes are now available at retailers nationwide.
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