Mattel Launches Barbie Doll with Diabetes to Promote Inclusion and Empathy.

Mattel launches Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes in partnership with Breakthrough T1D to promote inclusivity and empathy. The doll features a CGM, insulin pump, and app to help manage her condition. The launch comes after years of Mattel diversifying its Barbie models, including curvy, petite, and tall versions, as well as gender-inclusive and physically disabled dolls.

Mattel Inc. has taken a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and empathy by introducing the first Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The doll is part of the Barbie Fashionistas line and features a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), insulin pump, and an app to help manage her condition. This initiative is a part of Mattel's ongoing commitment to diversifying its Barbie models to represent a wider range of experiences and abilities [1][2].

The doll, designed in partnership with Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), aims to reflect the reality of living with T1D. Breakthrough T1D worked closely with Mattel to ensure the doll accurately represents the medical equipment and appearance of individuals with the condition. The doll features a CGM on her arm, an insulin pump attached to her waist, and a blue polka-dot top and skirt to represent diabetes awareness [2][3].

The introduction of this doll aligns with Mattel's broader mission to foster empathy and social skills through doll play. Previous studies have shown that doll play can help children develop empathy and social skills, setting them on a path for success [1]. The new doll is part of a line that includes more than 175 looks across various skin tones, eye colors, hair colors and textures, body types, disabilities, and fashion styles [1].

The doll is priced at $10.99 and is available at retailers such as Walmart and Amazon. Mattel has also announced that it will donate dolls to the Breakthrough T1D 2025 Children's Congress, a biennial event that brings over a hundred children with T1D to Washington, D.C., to meet with members of Congress [3].

This launch is part of Mattel's ongoing efforts to diversify its product line and promote inclusivity. The company has previously introduced curvy, petite, and tall Barbie dolls, as well as gender-inclusive and physically disabled dolls. The introduction of the T1D Barbie doll is a significant step in Mattel's commitment to representing a wide range of experiences and abilities [1][2].

References:
[1] https://corporate.mattel.com/news/barbie-introduces-first-ever-barbie-doll-with-type-1-diabetes-to-expand-representation-and-inspire-more-children
[2] https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/MATTEL-INC-13462/news/Mattel-Inc-Introduces-First-Ever-Barbie-Doll-with-Type-1-Diabetes-to-Expand-Representation-and-Ins-50462725/
[3] https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/07/08/barbie-type-1-diabetes-doll/84505634007/