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

    Proclamation 7655 of March 24, 2003

    Cancer Control Month, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Millions of Americans are winning the fight against cancer, but much
    work remains. More than 3,500 Americans are diagnosed with cancer each
    day, and more than 45,000 will die from the disease this month. Yet,
    experts believe that half of all cancer deaths are preventable. With
    exercise, nutrition, and healthy behavior, we can help prevent this
    deadly disease and save lives. During Cancer Control Month, we renew our
    commitment to over coming cancer by learning more about its prevention
    and early detection.
    To protect against disease, Americans can make smart choices that will
    lead to longer, healthier lives. A critical step that Americans can take
    to improve their health and reduce the risk of cancer is to avoid the
    use of tobacco. Also, avoiding excessive drinking and sun exposure can
    help guard against cancer and help ensure better health.
    Improvements in diet and fitness can help prevent many serious health
    problems. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and regular physical
    activity help protect us from illness and can add years to our lives.
    Research suggests that we can decrease the number of cancer deaths in
    America by one-third simply by changing our diets and getting more
    exercise.
    Preventative health screening is vital to early detection and treatment
    of cancer. Regular screening can save lives and enhances the well-

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    being of our Nation. Screening can detect many forms of cancer at
    earlier, less dangerous stages, allowing patients to seek treatment and
    defeat the cancer before it spreads. I urge all Americans to talk to
    their doctors about when to start preventative screening and how often
    to schedule appointments.
    Our Nation's investment in cancer prevention and research is making a
    difference, and recent medical discoveries offer hope to many Americans.
    The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is currently sponsoring more than 60
    clinical trials on cancer prevention and screening. One major clinical
    trial for men and women at risk for lung cancer began this year, and is
    investigating the most effective method of detecting lung cancer in
    order to reduce deaths from this devastating disease.
    As part of my HealthierUS Initiative and my Administration's ongoing
    commitment to helping the American people live healthier lives, I
    encourage all Americans to eat right, get more exercise, and take
    advantage of preventative screening. To learn more about ways to prevent
    cancer, you can talk to your doctor or contact the NCI's Cancer
    Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER or visit its Internet address at
    http://www.cancer.gov. Through healthy lifestyles, a better
    understanding of this disease, and new technology, I believe we will
    achieve a victory over cancer.
    In 1938, the Congress of the United States passed a joint resolution (52
    Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103) as amended, requesting the President to issue
    an annual proclamation declaring April as ``Cancer Control Month.''
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, do hereby proclaim April 2003 as Cancer Control Month. I
    encourage concerned citizens, government agencies, private businesses,
    nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in
    activities that will increase awareness of measures all Americans can
    take to prevent and control cancer.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day
    of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
    seventh.
    GEORGE W. BUSH