Football star Lionel Messi becomes face of Hepatitis C treatment initiative in Egypt

New Delhi: Hepatitis C, a blood-borne virus, is a liver disease that, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO) spreads through unsafe injection practices, inadequate sterilization of medical equipment, and the transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products.

Many celebrities in the past have come out in support of raising awareness regarding the unsafe practices that result in the spread of the disease, while many have confessed suffering from it.

Another celebrity joining the brigade to raise awareness is Argentinian football star Lionel Messi, who was recently in Egypt as the face of an initiative to promote the North African country as a medical tourism destination for hepatitis C patients.

"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. Hepatitis C is highly prevalent in Egypt.

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 WHO, it is responsible for up to 500,000 deaths every year.

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.

(With PTI inputs)