Mattel introduces first Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes
Mattel recently launched its first-ever Barbie doll with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) to represent children diagnosed with the autoimmune disease.
In a release, Mattel said that creating the doll is their commitment to inclusivity and representation, allowing more children "to see themselves reflected and encourage doll play that extends beyond a child’s lived experience."
“Barbie helps shape children’s early perceptions of the world, and by reflecting medical conditions like T1D, we ensure more kids can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love," Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, said in a statement.
"The doll represents the incredible people living with T1D, and shows kids that a life with this condition is just as vibrant, fulfilling, and rich with possibilities," it wrote on its Instagram post.
The project was made possible with Breakthrough T1D, the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, which aims to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes and its complications.
The new doll features wears blue polka dot dress, representing the global symbol for diabetes awareness. She also has a Continuous Glucose Monitor on her arm to help manage blood sugar levels, secured with a heart-shaped medical tape in Barbie pink. It comes with a phone with a CGM app to help her track her blood sugar levels throughout the day.
She also wears pastel blue shoes, matching colors with her purse for her essentials, like type 1 diabetes supplies or snacks.
Per the Mayo Clinic, Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disease in which the pancreas makes little or no insulin, a hormone that allows sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. It may be caused by genetics or viruses, and it usually appears during childhood or adolescence.
The doll costs around $10.99 (P621) on Amazon and Walmart. Check it out here.
Previously, Barbie has produced dolls with Down syndrome, blind dolls, and dolls with hearing aids.
