Mattel presents the first barbie with type 1 diabetes-a step towards visibility!

Mattel presents the first barbie with type 1 diabetes-a step towards visibility!

On July 9, 2025, Mattel presented a barbie doll with type 1 diabetes for the first time, an important step in creating visibility for children with chronic diseases. This new barbie belongs to the popular "fashionista" series, which already includes dolls with various disabilities and health conditions. Mattel has developed the doll in cooperation with the Breakthrough T1d organization, which is devoted to the clarification and support of patients with type 1 diabetes. Emily Mazreku, the director of marketing strategy in Breakthrough T1D and even affected by type 1 diabetes, emphasizes the emotional importance of this project.

The barbie carries a blue dotted outfit that refers to the symbolic color of the diabetes education. It is equipped with an insulin pump, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and a cell phone that contains a blood sugar app. Snacks for blood sugar regulation are also part of the accessories. These details are not chosen by chance; They were developed in close cooperation with the T1D community to offer a realistic presentation of the challenges with which children are confronted with this disease. Participation of the Barbie in events such as the Breakthrough T1d’s 2025 Children’s Congress, in which 170 young people took part with T1D, shows the commitment of Mattel to create awareness.

a step towards inclusion

The idea of the doll follows an increase in the diagnostic rates of type 1 diabetes, which is often made in childhood. In the United States, for example, around 304,000 children and adolescents live with this disease, many of which are not adequate visibility and support. The use of toys for the integration of health issues is intended to promote empathy and give the affected children a feeling of belonging. Experts agree that the barbie with type 1 diabetes is an important pedagogical measure to increase awareness of this disease.

parallel to the introduction of the Barbie, the German Diabetes Society (DDG) starts an online campaign entitled #Inclusion Examination. This campaign, which will be launched around World Children's Day on September 20, 2025, aims to improve the inclusion of chronically ill children in schools and increase their health literacy. The need for medical support in school contexts is high because about 15% of children live with chronic physical or mental illnesses. Teachers often feel overwhelmed, while school health specialists who could offer simple access to basic medical care are missing in many schools.

The social context of type 1 diabetes

The campaign requires relief from parents, teachers and educators through the integration of health -competent specialists in schools. This is particularly important because many mothers of children with type 1 diabetes reduce their working hours or even have to give up their work. The AMBA study shows that 39% of mothers reduce their working hours, while 10% give up their work entirely. In addition, the multitude of challenges that affected families are confronted illustrates the need for political commitment to support school health and the inclusion of chronically ill children.

summarized, the introduction of the barbie with type 1 diabetes not only represents a significant step in the toy industry, but also reflects a social movement towards more inclusion and support for children with chronic diseases.

vienna.at reports , Forbes href = "https://www.ddg.info/presseiche/2023/online-kampagne- Inclusion of the exclusion"> DDG describes the situation .