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Babesiosis Incidence in U.S. 10x Higher Than CDC Estimates, According to Insurance Claims Study Commissioned by 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals
SXTP60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals(SXTP) GlobeNewswire· Globenewswire·2025-06-03 12:49

Core Insights - 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced results from an insurance claims analysis indicating a significant discrepancy between the number of Americans seeking reimbursement for babesiosis-related medical costs and CDC estimates of actual cases [1][2][10] - The company is investigating the true burden of babesiosis, particularly its association with chronic fatigue, through ongoing clinical trials and studies [6][8][10] Claims Analysis - Approximately 25,000 Americans seek reimbursement for babesiosis-related medical costs annually, while CDC estimates only 2,000 cases in 2020 [2][10] - Claims data revealed that about 31% of babesiosis cases persist longer than 30 days, with nearly half of these cases associated with chronic fatigue lasting over six months [4][10] Chronic Fatigue Insights - Babesia infections can last at least 12 months in 14% of patients, with potential relapses occurring up to 27 months later [3] - Over three years, more than 12 million U.S. adults experienced chronic fatigue lasting more than six months, yet current guidelines do not mandate babesiosis as a differential diagnosis for such fatigue [5][10] Clinical Development - The company is conducting clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of tafenoquine in treating babesiosis, with data expected in the first half of 2026 [8][10] - A new drug application (NDA) for babesiosis is anticipated to be submitted to the FDA in 2026 [8][10] Product Information - Tafenoquine, marketed as ARAKODA, was approved for malaria prophylaxis in 2018 and is available as a prescription-only medication [9][10] - The drug has a long terminal half-life of approximately 16 days, allowing for less frequent dosing [9]