[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 32, Number 5 (Monday, February 5, 1996)]
[Pages 145-146]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 6864--American Heart Month, 1996

February 1, 1996

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    There are few among us whose lives have not been touched by the 
devastating effects of heart disease. Cardiovascular disease, which 
includes heart disease and stroke, takes one million of our citizens 
each year, and heart disease remains the single leading cause of death 
in this country. Millions of Americans suffer from high blood pressure, 
and millions more have high levels of blood cholesterol. Studies also 
show sharp increases in the number of people who are overweight and 
physically inactive.
    It is, however, encouraging that public health efforts are raising 
awareness of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Though some--
family history and age--are inescapable, the risks posed by high blood 
pressure and high cholesterol, lack of exercise, smoking, diabetes, and 
obesity can be greatly reduced through modifications to personal 
behavior. Advances in research have helped us to gain a better 
understanding of heart disease, provided new diagnostic methods, and 
helped develop treatments that save lives and vastly improve the outlook 
for stricken patients.
    We can be proud that the Federal Government has contributed to the 
fight against heart disease by supporting the efforts of the National 
Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, part of the National Institutes of 
Health, and by promoting new dietary and health guidelines. The American 
Heart Association, through research, education programs, and the work of 
its vital network of volunteers, has also played a crucial role.
    As we observe American Heart Month, let us build on our achievements 
by learning more about the causes of heart disease and by making the 
changes we can to improve our cardiovascular health. Recognizing that 
even small adjustments to diet and exercise habits can yield significant 
benefits, we can help those who already suffer from heart disease and 
encourage those who are taking their first steps toward better, 
healthier lives.
    In recognition of the need for all Americans to become involved in 
the work to stop heart disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution 
approved December 30, 1963 (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 169b), has requested 
that the President issue an annual proclamation designating February as 
``American Heart Month.''
    Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United 
States of America, do hereby proclaim February 1996, as American Heart 
Month. I call upon the Governors of the several 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 reaffirming our 
commitment to combating cardiovascular disease, including heart disease 
and stroke.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
February, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-six, and 
of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
twentieth.
                                            William J. Clinton

[[Page 146]]

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., February 2, 
1996]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
February 5.