[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 126, 112th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8874--OCT. 1, 2012

Proclamation 8874 of October 1, 2012

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2012

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Breast cancer touches the lives of Americans from every background and
in every community across our Nation. Though we have made great strides
in combatting this devastating illness, more than 200,000 women will be
diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and tens of thousands are
expected to lose their lives to the disease. During National Breast
Cancer Awareness Month, we honor those we have lost, lend our strength
to those who carry on the fight, and pledge to educate ourselves and our
loved ones about this tragic disease.
Though the exact causes of breast cancer are unknown, understanding its
risk factors is essential to prevention. Older women and those who have
a personal or family history of breast cancer are among those at greater
risk of developing the illness. Early detection is also key in the fight
against breast cancer. Getting recommended screening mammograms can help
to detect breast cancer early. I encourage women and men to speak with
their health care provider about breast cancer, and to visit
www.Cancer.gov to learn more about symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
My Administration remains committed to ensuring access to quality health
care that includes preventive services for women. Thanks to the
Affordable Care Act, many health plans are required to cover mammograms
and other recommended cancer screenings without co-pays or deductibles.
Starting in 2014, it will also ensure that no American can be denied
health insurance because of a pre-existing condition--including breast
cancer.
This month, we stand with the mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, and
friends who have been affected by breast cancer, and we recognize the
ongoing efforts of dedicated advocates, researchers, and health care
providers who strive each day to defeat this terrible disease. In memory
of the loved ones we have lost and inspired by the resilience of those
living with the disease, let us strengthen our resolve to lead our
Nation toward a future free from cancer in all its forms.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage citizens, government
agencies, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and all other
interested groups to join in activities that will increase awareness of
what Americans can do to prevent breast cancer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
seventh.
BARACK OBAMA