Barbie: New type 1 diabetes doll released, set to be promoted by model Lila Moss
Barbie has released a new type 1 diabetes doll in its latest step to include more “representation”, with model Lila Moss set to promote it.
Mattel partnered with Breakthrough T1D, a global not-for-profit diabetes research organisation, to design the new mainline doll.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that often starts in childhood and causes the body to attack and destroy cells in the pancreas that make insulin.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The doll includes a continuous glucose monitor, a wearable device that measures the person’s blood-sugar levels, held in place by pink heart shaped medical tape.
The Barbie also has a matching pink insulin pump attached at the waist, which allows for automated insulin dosing.
The doll wears a blue polka dot skirt set, with a matching bag to carry diabetes essentials.
Krista Berger, the senior vice president of Barbie, said the doll is “an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation”.
“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,” Ms Berger said.
Mattel announced that it gifted model Lila Moss and Peloton instructor Robin Arzon with the new doll, as both celebrities have type 1 diabetes.
The brand also collaborated with Moss to create her own version of the Barbie, dressed in a black mini dress with boots.
Moss told British Vogue she hopes this Barbie “helps people understand that, even with T1D, you can still do everything you want to do. I hope it encourages others to feel confident in showing their own patches and pumps too.”
Karen Addington, chief executive of Breakthrough T1D UK said the doll will be a “powerful role model” for children with T1D who “don’t often see themselves represented”.
Barbie was originally created in 1959 by Ruth Handler, who coined popular slogans including “We can do anything, right Barbie?” and “You can be anything”.
Over time the brand was criticised for lacking diversity and promoting unrealistic body proportions.
The Mattel website now declares the brand includes 35 skin tones, 97 hairstyles and nine body types.
