[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 10 (Monday, March 11, 2002)]
[Pages 335-336]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7527--National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, 2002

 March 2, 2002

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    This year, more than 148,000 people will be diagnosed with 
colorectal cancer, and more than 56,000 people will die from this

[[Page 336]]

disease. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related 
death in the United States, yet it is one of the most highly preventable 
forms of cancer. Early diagnosis is critical to survival. Research shows 
that 91 percent of patients with localized colorectal cancer survive for 
5 years after diagnosis, yet only 37 percent of all diagnoses occur at 
this stage. The remaining 63 percent of cases are not discovered until 
the disease has spread throughout the body.
    Because 75 percent of new cases occur in persons with no known risk 
factors, regular colorectal cancer screenings are crucial to prevention. 
Even for an individual without symptoms, screenings are extremely 
important. For those over 50 and for individuals with a family history 
of cancer, screenings should be scheduled on a regular basis. I am 
pleased to note that Medicare coverage for colonoscopies was expanded in 
2001 to provide this screening to more beneficiaries, and many 
commercial health plans now cover this cost.
    Many people avoid colorectal cancer screening due to fear or 
anxiety, however, it is important for all Americans to understand the 
importance of this routine procedure. During National Colorectal Cancer 
Awareness Month, I encourage all Americans to learn more about this 
disease, to assist prevention efforts, and to recognize the importance 
of colorectal screenings.
    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 March 2002 as National 
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon all Americans to take 
appropriate measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from 
this disease.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this Second day of 
March, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence 
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., March 5, 
2002]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on March 4, and it was published in the Federal Register on 
March 6.