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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 1, 2003
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2003
By the President of the United States
A Proclamation
Prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer among men in the
United States. This year alone, it is estimated that more than 220,000 new
cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed and that nearly 29,000 men will die
from this disease. During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we seek to
increase understanding about the risk factors of prostate cancer, the
importance of a healthy lifestyle, and the benefits of detecting the disease in
its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.
Although the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, several factors
have been found to increase the risk of developing this disease. Men aged 65
years or older make up about 70 percent of all diagnosed prostate cancer cases.
In addition, a man's risk of developing prostate cancer doubles if a father or
brother has been diagnosed with the disease.
Making healthy choices is critical to prevent prostate cancer and many
other diseases. Research suggests that some men may be able to reduce their
risk of prostate cancer by eating healthy foods and exercising on a regular
basis.
Early detection is important in successfully treating prostate cancer.
Preventative screenings can reveal a man's current health status and identify
whether he needs to adjust his diet or behavior. I urge men, particularly those
over 50, to learn more about the disease and to talk to their doctors about
when to start preventative screening. Healthcare providers can advise men as to
which tests are most appropriate. Through early detection and treatment, we can
reduce the number of deaths caused by prostate cancer.
Today, our Nation is on the leading edge of new discoveries. As we continue
to make advancements in medicine, my Administration remains committed to
learning the causes of prostate cancer and finding a cure. My fiscal year 2004
budget proposal includes more than $13 million for the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention to conduct, support, and promote efforts that increase
awareness of screening and early detection, and more than $5.6 billion for
cancer research at the National Institutes of Health. Through my HealthierUS
Initiative, my Administration is also encouraging all citizens to lead
healthier lives by eating right, exercising, and taking advantage of preventative
screening. By working together, we will improve our ability to prevent, treat,
and 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 2003 as National Prostate
Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon government officials, businesses,
communities, healthcare professionals, educators, volunteers, and all people of
the United States to reaffirm our Nation's strong and continuing commitment to
prevent, treat, and cure prostate cancer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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