Mattel has officially launched the first-ever Type 1 diabetes Barbie doll, adding a new level of inclusivity to its popular Fashionistas line. This release aims to reflect the lives of children living with Type 1 diabetes and allow them to see themselves represented in the toys they play with.
The Type 1 diabetes Barbie includes realistic medical accessories like a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm and an insulin pump attached to her waist. She also comes with a smartphone that displays a CGM app to help manage her blood sugar levels. A pastel blue purse completes her look, symbolizing her readiness to carry snacks or medical supplies needed for managing the condition.
Barbie collaborated with Breakthrough T1D, a global diabetes research organization, to ensure the doll accurately represents the condition. The organization, formerly known as JDRF, helped design the doll’s appearance and medical gear. Together, they worked to provide an authentic portrayal of what it’s like to live with Type 1 diabetes.
Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls at Mattel, said this launch reflects Barbie’s ongoing mission to promote inclusivity. “Introducing a Barbie doll with diabetes marks an important step in our commitment to representation,” she said. “Children learn from what they see. When they see dolls with conditions like Type 1 diabetes, they feel seen, included, and empowered.”
As part of the initiative, Mattel is donating the Type 1 diabetes Barbie doll to the 2025 Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress. This event brings over a hundred children with the condition to Washington, D.C., where they engage with U.S. lawmakers and raise awareness about the challenges of living with Type 1 diabetes.
The doll wears a blue polka dot top and skirt with ruffles, a design inspired by the international color and symbols of diabetes awareness. Every feature of the doll was carefully created to help normalize medical conditions and reduce stigma.
Many online are also asking, “What is the Barbie doll disorder?” While often misunderstood, this phrase doesn’t refer to an official medical diagnosis. Instead, it has been used colloquially in the past to describe unrealistic beauty standards. However, this new barbie doll diabetes edition shifts the narrative toward health, diversity, and empathy.With this launch, Mattel continues its effort to reflect real-life conditions and stories through dolls. For kids living with chronic illnesses, the Type 1 diabetes Barbie is more than a toy, it’s a sign that they matter.
