Barbie introduces first-ever doll with Type 1 diabetes

On July 8, Mattel, Inc. introduced its first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The company collaborated with Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) to ensure that the doll's design accurately represents the medical equipment used by individuals with this condition.

The doll features:

• A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) on her arm to help manage her type 1 diabetes. CGMs are small, wearable devices that continuously measure a person’s blood-sugar levels. To keep her CGM in place, Barbie uses heart-shaped medical tape – Barbie pink, of course – along with a phone that displays a CGM app to help track her blood sugar levels throughout the day.
• An insulin pump, a small, wearable medical device that allows for automated insulin dosing as needed, attached to her waist.
• A blue polka dot outfit – both the color blue and circle print are nods to the global symbols that represent diabetes awareness.
• A pastel blue purse, perfect for Barbie to carry any essentials, such as type 1 diabetes supplies or snacks, when she’s on the go.

“We were thrilled when Barbie approached us to collaborate on the development of the Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes,” said Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., CEO of Breakthrough T1D. “I have lived with T1D since I was 13, and my brother since he was 3, so this partnership is deeply personal – it means the world to be part of bringing greater visibility to a condition that affects so many families. 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 new doll is part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, which features more than 175 looks across various skin tones, eye colors, hair colors and textures, body types, disabilities, and fashion styles, including a Blind Barbie doll, a Barbie doll with Down Syndrome, and a Barbie doll with Hearing Aids, among others.

The 2025 Barbie Fashionistas dolls, including the Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes, are now available on Mattel Shop (shop.mattel.com) and at retailers nationwide.