[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 118, 108th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

Proclamation 7823 of October 1, 2004


 
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2004


By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we raise awareness of
this deadly disease, encourage early detection, and support research to
find a cure.
Prevention and early detection are key to winning the fight against
breast cancer. Although the exact cause of the disease is unknown,
factors that can affect the risk of developing cancer include age,
general health, and family history. This year, estimates are that over
200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Regular screening for breast cancer continues to be the most effective way to detect this
disease early and to save lives, and mammograms are the best screening
tool we currently have. Women should talk to their health care providers
about their breast cancer risk.

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To improve the quality of life and find a cure for those affected by
breast cancer, we are learning more about its causes. The National
Institutes of Health has invested an estimated $700 million this year
alone on breast cancer research and will spend more next year. The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has devoted over $200 million
this year and more next year for an early detection program that
promotes mammograms and helps low-income women afford screenings for
breast and cervical cancer. The Department of Defense also invested
approximately $150 million for its Breast Cancer Research program in
2004. This funding will help lead to better treatments for cancer
patients and new hope for countless Americans and their families.
We salute breast cancer survivors for their courage and perseverance.
Their courageous battle against cancer is an inspiration to countless
Americans, and their willingness to share their stories and experiences
helps spread awareness and offers hope and comfort to cancer patients
across the country. Together with health care professionals,
researchers, and family members, we can improve the lives of those
suffering from this disease and win the fight against breast 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 October 2004 as National
Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon Government officials,
businesses, communities, health care professionals, educators,
volunteers, and all the people of the United States to continue our
Nation's strong commitment to controlling and curing breast cancer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH

PROCLAMATION 7824--OCT. 4, 2004