[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 5 (Monday, February 6, 2006)]
[Pages 167-168]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7978--American Heart Month, 2006

February 1, 2006

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    More than 70 million Americans live with some form of heart disease, 
and this disease remains the leading cause of death in the United 
States. During American Heart Month, we reinforce our commitment to 
fighting heart disease by promoting awareness about its risks, its 
causes, and the ways to reduce the chance of developing this deadly 
illness.

    Many of the factors that lead to heart disease, such as high blood 
pressure, high blood cholesterol, and obesity, can be controlled with 
commonsense steps and healthy lifestyles. Through the HealthierUS 
Initiative, my Administration encourages Americans to work toward four 
simple goals that can lead to a healthy heart: exercise daily; develop 
good eating habits; avoid tobacco, drugs, and excessive alcohol; and 
take advantage of preventive screenings to detect problems early.

    First Lady Laura Bush helps lead ``The Heart Truth'' campaign 
through her Women's Health and Wellness Initiative. The campaign was 
launched by business, non-profit, and government organizations, 
including the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, to educate 
women about the risks of heart disease and to encourage them to make 
their cardiovascular health a priority. Along with the American Heart 
Association's ``Go Red for Women'' campaign, these initiatives use the 
red dress as a symbol to remind women to make healthy choices and talk 
with their doctors about heart disease.

    As a result of the Medicare Modernization Act, our seniors have more 
choices to prevent, diagnose, and treat potential problems before they 
become worse. Medicare now covers preventive screenings, a ``Welcome to 
Medicare'' physical for new beneficiaries, and innovative programs to 
help seniors fight chronic threats. I urge all Medicare beneficiaries to 
take advantage of these measures as part of a healthy lifestyle.

    All Americans can improve their heart health and live longer, better 
lives by taking an active role in their health care decisions and 
consulting their physician for the latest information. As we observe 
American Heart Month, we recognize those battling heart disease; we 
express gratitude to the family members and friends who are a source of 
love and encouragement; and we commend the medical professionals and 
researchers who provide assistance and work to find cures and improve 
treatments.

    In acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing fight against 
cardiovascular disease, the Congress, by Joint Resolution approved 
December 30, 1963, as amended (77 Stat. 843; 36 U.S.C. 101), has 
requested that the President issue an annual proclamation designating 
February as ``American Heart Month.''

    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, do hereby proclaim February 2006 as American Heart Month, and I 
invite all Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on February 
3, 2006. I also invite the Governors of the 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 recognizing and 
reaffirming our commitment to combating heart disease.

    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
February, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., February 3, 
2006]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
February 6.

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