[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 120, 109th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8077--OCT. 30, 2006
Proclamation 8077 of October 30, 2006
National Diabetes Month, 2006
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
National Diabetes Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of risk
factors, prevention, and treatment of this serious disease.
Diabetes is a chronic illness affecting nearly 21 million Americans of
all ages and backgrounds. It can cause blindness, nontraumatic
amputations, kidney disease, and increased risk of heart disease and
stroke. Though diabetes affects Americans of all racial and ethnic
backgrounds, certain groups are at higher risk, including Hispanic,
Asian/Pacific, African, and Native Americans. A small percentage of
people with the disease suffer from Type 1 diabetes, once known as
juvenile diabetes. These individuals are usually children or young
adults whose

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bodies are unable to make insulin. Type 2 diabetes is more common and
frequently occurs in individuals who have a family history of the
disease and in people who are obese, inactive, or older. This form of
diabetes stops a person's body from using insulin properly. By
maintaining healthy eating habits and exercising daily, Americans can
help prevent and reduce the effects of diabetes. Individuals should
consult with their doctors and receive a preventive screening to help
detect diabetes in its earliest stages.
My Administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to preventing and
finding a cure for diabetes. We have supported funding for diabetes
education programs and research initiatives, and this year the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that more than $1 billion will be
spent on diabetes research. The NIH and the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention are sponsoring the National Diabetes Education Program,
which has helped inform millions of Americans about the risk factors of
diabetes and the benefits of making healthy choices. By working together
we can continue to make significant strides in the battle to beat this
disease and provide a brighter future for many of our citizens.
As we observe National Diabetes Month, we recognize the medical
professionals, researchers, and all those whose tireless efforts are
making a positive difference in the lives of Americans suffering from
this disease. This month we reaffirm our commitment to fighting
diabetes, and through medical advances, preventive programs, and quality
health care, we will help diabetes patients live longer, healthier, and
happier lives.
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 November 2006 as National
Diabetes Month. I call upon all Americans to learn more about the risk
factors and symptoms associated with diabetes and to observe this month
with appropriate programs and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
GEORGE W. BUSH