[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 118, 108th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7813 of September 14, 2004


 
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2004


By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

We have made dramatic progress in the battle against prostate cancer.
However, prostate cancer is still the most commonly diagnosed form of
cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer-related death among
American men. During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we again
demonstrate our Nation's commitment to the prevention, research, and
treatment of this disease.
Studies have shown that men with certain risk factors are more likely to
develop prostate cancer. Age is the most significant factor--most men
with prostate cancer are older than 65. Family history, a diet high in
animal fats or meat, and certain other factors may also increase the
likelihood of developing this disease. As we work to better understand
the factors contributing to prostate cancer, I urge all men to talk to
their doctors about the best course of action to reduce their own risk.
Although we cannot yet prevent prostate cancer, we know that early
detection and treatment often make the difference between life and
death. Screenings available include blood tests and physical
examinations that can help detect the cancer at earlier, less dangerous
stages. Researchers and scientists are also working to find more
effective treatments that will give patients and their families greater
hope. My Administration is committed to funding vital research and
finding a cure for prostate cancer. Currently, the National Cancer
Institute is sponsoring the largest prostate cancer prevention clinical
trial ever conducted. The National Institutes of Health invested $379
million in prostate cancer research in 2003, and plans to spend almost
$400 million this year and an estimated $417 million in 2005. In
addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department
of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs are playing essential
roles in efforts to translate research into effective treatments.
To help save lives and raise awareness of prostate cancer, I urge all
Americans to talk with family and friends about the importance of
screening and early detection. By educating ourselves and others about
this disease, we can improve our ability to prevent, detect, treat, and
ultimately cure prostate cancer.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2004 as National
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon government officials,
businesses, communities, health care professionals, educators,
volunteers, and all people of the United States to reaffirm our Nation's
strong and continuing commitment to control and cure prostate cancer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

PROCLAMATION 7814--SEPT. 14, 2004

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