Society. “Making play more inclusive”: Mattel unveils its first Barbie with diabetes

A blue polka-dot top, ruffled skirt, matching heels and handbag... But also a glucose monitor and insulin pump! Mattel announced Tuesday the launch of the first-ever Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes , which the American toymaker says is intended to "strengthen the sense of inclusion and empathy" around this condition that affects millions of children worldwide.

"At Mattel, we recognize the powerful role Barbie plays in shaping children's early perceptions of the world," said Krista Berger, senior vice president of the Barbie brand, quoted in the El Segundo-based company's press release.

“By expanding our line to include dolls with medical conditions like type 1 diabetes, we can represent the diabetes community and continue our mission to make play more inclusive, so every child can see themselves in the stories they imagine and the dolls they love,” she adds.

British model Lila Moss, daughter of supermodel Kate Moss and who has suffered from type 1 diabetes since childhood, received a Barbie doll in her image on this occasion. "To now be able to see Barbie dolls with type 1 diabetes, and to receive a Barbie doll that looks like me, with her patches visible, is both surreal and special," she said. During Milan Fashion Week 2021, Lila Moss walked the runway in a collaboration between Fendi and Versace, nicknamed "Fendace," revealing her insulin pump on her thigh.

The number of people with type 1 diabetes is increasing every year worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. And the disease primarily affects young people. In 2023, 31,400 French people under the age of 20 were affected, compared to 20,300 in 2012, according to data from Public Health France.