Mattel Introduces Barbie with Diabetes Management Accessories to Reflect Real-Life Experiences

In a pioneering move to promote inclusivity and awareness, Mattel has released its first-ever Barbie doll representing a child with type 1 diabetes. The new doll features a realistic insulin pump at her waist, a continuous glucose monitor on her arm secured with pink heart-shaped tape, and a stylish purse filled with supplies and snacks. Additionally, her phone displays blood sugar levels, with readings based on real data from a person living with diabetes, highlighting the importance of managing the condition daily.

This innovative Barbie was unveiled on July 8 during the Breakthrough T1D Children's Congress in Washington, D.C., an event that brings together young people with diabetes to advocate for ongoing research funding, including the critical Support for the Special Diabetes Program, which is slated to end in September.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that typically begins in childhood, where the immune system attacks the pancreas, resulting in insulin deficiency. Unlike type 2 diabetes, where the body makes insulin but does not use it effectively, type 1 requires regular insulin administration through injections or an insulin pump to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

The doll’s design, which includes a continuous glucose monitor on her arm and a small insulin pump at her waist, aims to normalize the condition and demonstrate that children with health challenges can still express style and personality. Her outfit—a blue polka-dot dress—symbolizes diabetes awareness, and her matching purse holds essential supplies.

An inspiring detail is that the blood sugar reading on the doll’s phone reflects real numbers from Emily Mazreku, a staff member and a person with type 1 diabetes, who contributed nearly two years to the doll's design. Emily expressed that Mattel approached her to incorporate this representation into their Fashionista line, which already features diverse dolls with different body types and conditions, including vitiligo, prosthetics, hearing aids, and mobility aids.

Experts believe that toys like this Barbie play a significant role in fostering understanding and empathy among children. Playing with dolls that reflect real-world challenges helps kids grasp different experiences and encourages inclusivity. For Emily Mazreku, seeing her condition represented was deeply personal, especially as she shared the doll with her young daughter, who recognized her mother in the toy and learned to see health conditions as part of everyday life.

For more information on living with type 1 diabetes, visit the CDC’s resources on the condition.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-barbie-latest-insulin-glucose.html