[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-

[[Page 3016]]
117 STAT. 3016

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