[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 5 (Monday, February 5, 2007)]
[Page 109]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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Proclamation 8104--American Heart Month, 2007

February 1, 2007

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, 
claiming hundreds of thousands of lives each year. During American Heart 
Month, we renew our commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease by 
increasing public awareness of this deadly disease and understanding of 
how it can be prevented.
    Today, millions of Americans live with some form of cardiovascular 
disease, including congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, and 
high blood pressure. Individuals can reduce their chance of developing 
these and other types of heart disease by exercising regularly, 
maintaining healthy eating habits and weight, avoiding tobacco use, and 
monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure levels. All Americans should 
speak with their doctors about the dangers of this disease and get 
regular preventive screenings.
    My Administration continues to help raise awareness of heart disease 
through initiatives such as ``The Heart Truth'' campaign, sponsored by 
the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. First Lady Laura Bush 
serves as the National Ambassador of ``The Heart Truth'' campaign and 
works with partner organizations as part of her Women's Health and 
Wellness Initiative. The campaign informs women about the dangers of 
this deadly illness and encourages them to make cardiovascular health a 
priority. This year marks the fifth anniversary of the campaign, which 
uses the red dress as a symbol to remind women to protect their heart 
health and inspire them to take action. New data shows that fewer women 
are dying from heart disease, and more women are aware heart disease is 
the number one killer.
    During American Heart Month, we honor the medical professionals, 
researchers, and all those whose tireless efforts are making a positive 
difference in the lives of those battling heart disease. By working 
together, we can continue to help the American people live longer and 
healthier lives.
    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 2007 as American Heart Month, and I 
invite all Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on February 
2, 2007. 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 fighting cardiovascular disease.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
February, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:47 a.m., February 2, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
February 5.