CAIRO:Argentinian football star Lionel Messi was in Egypt Tuesday as the face of an initiative to promote the North African country as a medical tourism destination for hepatitis C patients.
A blood-borne viral disease, hepatitis C is highly prevalent in Egypt."Medication against hepatitis C saves lives, let´s put an end to the waiting lists," the Barcelona FC superstar said on his official Facebook page.
Messi has signed to become the ambassador for Tour n´ Cure, the Egyptian initiative said on its website.The programme offers treatment for hepatitis C patients from all over the world "with no waiting time and at a fraction of the cost," it said.
It also promoted "the opportunity to take in the beauty of Egypt and visit historic landmarks during the days of the treatment, while enjoying a relaxing stay at a 5-star hotel".
Hepatitis C affects 130 to 150 million people globally and can result in liver cirrhosis or cancer.According to the World Health Organization, it is responsible for up to 500,000 deaths yearly.
Messi´s visit to Egypt was initially scheduled for December, but the footballer postponed it after a suicide bombing of a Cairo church killed 29 people.
He again deferred the visit last week after Barca´s 4-0 defeat to Paris SG, Egypt´s tourism ministry said, but did not give any reason for the postponement.