[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 38 (Monday, September 20, 2004)]
[Pages 1992-1993]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7813--National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2004

 September 14, 2004

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    We have made dramatic progress in the battle against prostate 
cancer. However, prostate cancer is still the most commonly diagnosed 
form of cancer and the second-leading cause of cancer-related death 
among American men. During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we 
again demonstrate our Nation's commitment to the prevention, research, 
and treatment of this disease.
    Studies have shown that men with certain risk factors are more 
likely to develop prostate cancer. Age is the most significant factor--
most men with prostate cancer are older than 65. Family history, a diet 
high in animal fats or meat, and certain other factors may also increase 
the likelihood of developing this disease. As we work to better 
understand the factors contributing to prostate cancer, I urge all men 
to talk to their doctors about the best course of action to reduce their 
own risk.
    Although we cannot yet prevent prostate cancer, we know that early 
detection and treatment often make the difference between life and 
death. Screenings available include blood tests and physical 
examinations that can help detect the cancer at earlier, less dangerous 
stages. Researchers and scientists are also working to find more 
effective treatments that will give patients and their families greater 
hope. My Administration is committed to funding vital research and 
finding a cure for prostate cancer. Currently, the National Cancer 
Institute is sponsoring the largest prostate cancer prevention clinical 
trial ever conducted. The National Institutes of Health invested $379 
million in prostate cancer research in 2003, and plans to spend almost 
$400 million this year and an estimated $417 million in 2005. In 
addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department 
of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs are playing essential 
roles in efforts to translate research into effective treatments.
    To help save lives and raise awareness of prostate cancer, I urge 
all Americans to talk with family and friends about the importance of 
screening and early detection. By educating ourselves and others about 
this disease, we can improve our ability to prevent, detect, treat, and 
ultimately cure prostate cancer.
    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

[[Page 1993]]

States, do hereby proclaim September 2004 as National Prostate Cancer 
Awareness Month. I call upon government officials, businesses, 
communities, health care professionals, educators, volunteers, and all 
people of the United States to reaffirm our Nation's strong and 
continuing commitment to control and cure prostate cancer.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day 
of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
ninth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., September 16, 
2004]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
September 17.