[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 

PROCLAMATION 8344--FEB. 2, 2009

Proclamation 8344 of February 2, 2009
American Heart Month, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Together, we can turn the tide on the number one killer of American
women and men. Heart disease claims more lives each year than all forms
of cancer combined. During American Heart Month, we renew our commitment
to promoting heart disease awareness. It is never too late to start
protecting heart health.
Certain risk factors can lead to heart disease. These include: high
blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking,
and

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diabetes. Practicing the following ``Big Four'' habits can help mitigate
these risks: eating a heart healthy diet, getting regular physical
activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco.
Unfortunately, only 3 percent of U.S. adults practice all of these
habits. As a Nation, we must work to increase that number.
Forming these healthy habits does not have to be difficult: Setting
realistic goals, making gradual improvements, and inviting family and
friends to join in this pursuit can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Above
all, we must remember that taking action can mean a longer, healthier,
and more enjoyable life.

Michelle and I especially encourage women to take heart health
seriously. More women than men die of heart disease each year, and many
women fail to make the connection between risk factors and their
personal risk of developing heart disease. The Federal Government's The
Heart Truth campaign gives women a personal and urgent wake-up call
about their risk for heart disease. On the first Friday in February, The
Heart Truth will lead the Nation in celebrating National Wear Red Day to
promote heart disease awareness. All Americans are encouraged to wear
red or the Red Dress Pin-the national symbol for women and heart disease
awareness-to show support for adopting the Big Four heart health
lifestyle habits. This year on National Wear Red Day, we urge all
Americans to practice the ``Big Four'' healthy habits for reducing heart
disease risk.
During American Heart Month, we also honor the health professionals,
researchers, and other heart health ambassadors whose efforts help all
Americans lead longer and healthier lives.
In acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing fight against
cardiovascular disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved
December 30, 1963, as amended (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 101), has
requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating
February as ``American Heart Month.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim February 2009 as American Heart Month, and I
invite all Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on February
6, 2009. I also invite the Governors of the States, the Commonwealth of
Puerto Rico, officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the
United States, and the American people to join me in recognizing and
reaffirming our commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of
February, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
BARACK OBAMA