[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 45 (Monday, November 10, 2003)]
[Pages 1512-1513]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7728--National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2003

 October 31, 2003

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Recent studies estimate that 4.5 million Americans are affected by 
Alzheimer's disease, and that more than 13 million will be affected by 
the middle of this century. As we seek to increase our understanding of 
the causes, symptoms, and effects of this disease, we recognize the 
victims and the family members, caregivers, and healthcare professionals 
who care for those afflicted with it.
    Researchers have not yet discovered the cause of Alzheimer's 
disease, but its effects are well documented. Alzheimer's disrupts the 
processes that keep nerve cells in the brain healthy, resulting in a 
decline in cognitive abilities. Those affected by Alzheimer's disease 
grow increasingly dependent on others.
    Alzheimer's disease has no known cure or certain treatment, but 
research will continue to lead us to breakthroughs that will help 
control the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or eventually cure or even 
reverse its effects. We are supporting Alzheimer's research and helping 
those afflicted with the disease get care. Through the National 
Institute on Aging (NIA), we are funding Alzheimer's Disease Centers 
across the country that care for patients, improve diagnostic 
techniques, and participate in long-term research. The NIA also operates 
the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center, which provides 
vital information to people with Alzheimer's disease and their 
caregivers. In addition, scientists at the National Institutes of Health 
and the Department of Veterans Affairs are conducting clinical trials of 
drugs and enhancing overall care.
    During National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, we especially 
thank all who care for those affected by this tragic disease. By caring 
for patients and continuing vital research, we strive to improve the 
quality of life for today's victims and enhance the health of future 
generations.

[[Page 1513]]

    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 November 2003 as National 
Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon the people of the 
United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and 
activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first 
day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
eighth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., November 4, 
2003]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on November 1, and it was published in the Federal Register on 
November 5.