[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9247 of April 1, 2015

National Cancer Control Month, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

For generations, the United States has been committed to combating
cancer. It is a battle fought by our finest medical researchers, devoted
health care professionals, and the many loved ones who have known the
pain of this disease. Over decades, our Nation has made extraordinary
progress. The overall rates of cancer deaths are decreasing for both
women and men, and most survivors live longer and enjoy a better quality
of life than ever before. Still, cancer remains the second most common
cause of death in America, and there is more work to do. This month, we
stand with all those touched by cancer and redouble our efforts to
prevent, detect, and treat this disease.

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All people can take steps to reduce their chances of developing can-
cer. Maintaining a healthy weight, protecting skin from exposure to
ultraviolet radiation, and limiting alcohol consumption can help
individuals live healthier lives. Because cigarettes are a major cause
of cancer, quitting smoking and reducing exposure to secondhand
smoke can also decrease risk. For advice on how to quit smoking, go
to www.SmokeFree.gov or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW. I also encourage Americans
to visit www.Cancer.gov for more information on cancer prevention.
When cancer is found in an early stage, it can be easier to treat and
the chances of survival often increase. My Administration has fought to
make this possible for more Americans. Protections under the Affordable
Care Act require most insurance plans to cover recommended preventive
services without copays, including some cancer screenings for qualifying
individuals. These protections also eliminate annual and lifetime dollar
limits on coverage and prohibit insurers from denying coverage because
of pre-existing conditions, including cancer.
New technologies and strategic investments have made the difference
between life and death for many of today's cancer patients. But as
Americans, we have never been satisfied to rest on the accomplishments
of our past; we reach for the future and stretch the boundaries of what
is possible. That is why earlier this year, I announced my plan to lead
a new era of medicine--one that delivers the right treatment at the
right moment and brings us closer to curing cancer in our time. By
investing in new research methods that will enable clinicians to tailor
treatments to individual patients, the Precision Medicine Initiative
will revolutionize how our Nation combats disease.
As we continue the urgent work of improving research, treatment, and
care, let us remember those lost to cancer. During National Cancer
Control Month, we recognize all who dedicate their lives to advancing
the fight against this disease, and we recommit to achieving a future
free from cancer in all its forms.
The Congress of the United States, by joint resolution approved March
28, 1938 (52 Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103), as amended, has requested the
President to issue an annual proclamation declaring April as ``Cancer
Control Month.''
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, do hereby proclaim April 2015 as National Cancer Control Month.
I encourage citizens, government agencies, private businesses, nonprofit
organizations, and other interested groups to join in activities that
will increase awareness of what Americans can do to prevent and control
cancer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of April,
in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.
BARACK OBAMA