[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