[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 13 (Monday, March 31, 2003)]
[Pages 356-357]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7655--Cancer Control Month, 2003

 March 24, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Millions of Americans are winning the fight against cancer, but much 
work remains. More than 3,500 Americans are diagnosed with cancer each 
day, and more than 45,000 will die from the disease this month. Yet, 
experts believe that half of all cancer deaths are preventable. With 
exercise, nutrition, and

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healthy behavior, we can help prevent this deadly disease and save 
lives. During Cancer Control Month, we renew our commitment to over 
coming cancer by learning more about its prevention and early detection.
    To protect against disease, Americans can make smart choices that 
will lead to longer, healthier lives. A critical step that Americans can 
take to improve their health and reduce the risk of cancer is to avoid 
the use of tobacco. Also, avoiding excessive drinking and sun exposure 
can help guard against cancer and help ensure better health.
    Improvements in diet and fitness can help prevent many serious 
health problems. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and regular 
physical activity help protect us from illness and can add years to our 
lives. Research suggests that we can decrease the number of cancer 
deaths in America by one-third simply by changing our diets and getting 
more exercise.
    Preventative health screening is vital to early detection and 
treatment of cancer. Regular screening can save lives and enhances the 
well-being of our Nation. Screening can detect many forms of cancer at 
earlier, less dangerous stages, allowing patients to seek treatment and 
defeat the cancer before it spreads. I urge all Americans to talk to 
their doctors about when to start preventative screening and how often 
to schedule appointments.
    Our Nation's investment in cancer prevention and research is making 
a difference, and recent medical discoveries offer hope to many 
Americans. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is currently sponsoring 
more than 60 clinical trials on cancer prevention and screening. One 
major clinical trial for men and women at risk for lung cancer began 
this year, and is investigating the most effective method of detecting 
lung cancer in order to reduce deaths from this devastating disease.
    As part of my HealthierUS Initiative and my Administration's ongoing 
commitment to helping the American people live healthier lives, I 
encourage all Americans to eat right, get more exercise, and take 
advantage of preventative screening. To learn more about ways to prevent 
cancer, you can talk to your doctor or contact the NCI's Cancer 
Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER or visit its Internet address at 
http://www.cancer.gov. Through healthy lifestyles, a better 
understanding of this disease, and new technology, I believe we will 
achieve a victory over cancer.
    In 1938, the Congress of the United States passed a joint resolution 
(52 Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103) as amended, requesting the President to 
issue an annual proclamation declaring April as ``Cancer Control 
Month.''
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, do hereby proclaim April 2003 as Cancer Control Month. I 
encourage concerned citizens, government agencies, private businesses, 
nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in 
activities that will increase awareness of measures all Americans can 
take to prevent and control cancer.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth 
day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., March 26, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
27.