Media Tip Sheet: Mattel Releases Barbie with Type 1 diabetes


July 9, 2025

Mattel introduced its latest Barbie line this week to include a doll that has Type 1 diabetes.

The doll, which is now available in stores, has a glucose monitor attached to her arm and an insulin pump on her waist.

Cases of Type 1 diabetes in young people continue to increase in the United States. According to the CDC, approximately 304,000 children and adolescents under the age of 20 have Type 1 diabetes. 

Faculty experts at the George Washington University are available to offer insight. To schedule an interview with an expert, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, katelyn [dot] deckelbaumatgwu [dot] edu (katelyn[dot]deckelbaum[at]gwu[dot]edu).

Sabyasachi Sen, a medicine and biochemistry professor at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences is available to speak about Type 1 diabetes in children and the impact this Barbie could have on children living with this chronic disease. 

Ashley Yoo is a primary care resident at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences. As someone with Type 1 diabetes she can talk about how relatable this Barbie will be to young children.

-GW-