    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7700 of September 1, 2003

    National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    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.

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    117 STAT. 3081

    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