Meet Barbie's First Doll with Type 1 Diabetes
Published On: July 9, 2025.
Mattel has introduced its first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes (T1D), marking a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity and representation in children's toys. This new addition to the Barbie Fashionistas line aims to provide children living with T1D a relatable role model and to raise awareness about the condition.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone essential for regulating blood sugar levels. Managing T1D involves daily monitoring of blood glucose levels and insulin administration, typically through injections or an insulin pump. The new Barbie doll reflects these aspects of the condition, featuring a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and an insulin pump, both styled in pink to maintain Barbie's signature aesthetic. The CGM is secured with heart-shaped medical tape, and the doll carries a smartphone displaying a CGM app, symbolizing the technology many individuals with T1D use to manage their condition.
Designed in collaboration with Breakthrough T1D, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to type 1 diabetes research and advocacy, the doll's development involved input from the T1D community to ensure authenticity. Aaron J. Kowalski, CEO of Breakthrough T1D and a person living with T1D, expressed the significance of this partnership, stating, "It's an honor to work with a brand that shares our commitment to showing children that a life with type 1 diabetes can be full, vibrant, and empowering."
The doll's outfit, a blue polka-dot top and skirt, pays homage to the global symbols representing diabetes awareness: the color blue and the circle shape. Additionally, Barbie carries a pastel blue purse, providing a space to store snacks or other T1D supplies, reflecting the practical aspects of managing the condition.
This release is part of Mattel's broader initiative to diversify the Barbie brand. Since 2019, the company has expanded the Fashionistas line to include dolls with various disabilities and medical conditions, such as blindness, Down syndrome, and vitiligo. By introducing the T1D Barbie, Mattel continues its commitment to ensuring that all children can see themselves reflected in the toys they play with.
The Barbie with type 1 diabetes is now available for purchase on the Mattel Shop and at major retailers. Priced at $10.99, the doll offers a tangible representation for children with T1D and serves as an educational tool for others to learn about the condition. Through this initiative, Mattel and Breakthrough T1D hope to foster a more inclusive environment where children of all backgrounds and health conditions can feel seen and supported.