[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 39 (Monday, October 6, 2008)]
[Pages 1285-1286]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8297--National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2008

 October 1, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we underscore our 
commitment to fighting and preventing this devastating disease. Breast 
cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women, and we 
must strengthen our support of those who are living with this disease 
while continuing to work toward a cure.
    Breast cancer can be attributed to many factors, including age, 
genetics, obesity, and family history. Women who exercise regularly, 
maintain healthy diets, and have yearly visits with their doctors are 
less likely to get breast cancer. Various screening measures such as 
mammograms, regular breast self-exams, and clinical breast exams can 
help detect cancer before it has a chance to spread. Early detection 
allows for early intervention, helps make treatment more effective, and 
gives hope to patients and saves lives.
    America leads the world in medical research, and my Administration 
will continue to support efforts to treat and cure breast cancer. Since 
2005, the Cancer Genome Atlas has studied the genetic sources of all 
types of cancer, and last year, I signed the ``National Breast and 
Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Reauthorization Act of 2007,'' 
which will help millions of low-income and uninsured women get the 
screenings they need to detect cancer early. First Lady Laura Bush has 
encouraged women around the world to take charge of

[[Page 1286]]

their health and emphasized the importance of screenings and early 
detection. In partnership with Federal agencies, State health agencies, 
and other medical professionals, my Administration has taken action to 
improve our Nation's healthcare system and helped promote the 
prevention, detection, and treatment of breast cancer.
    This month, we honor those currently battling the disease and all 
who have survived the fight against breast cancer. We are inspired by 
their strength and determination. We recognize and applaud the hard-
working caregivers and researchers who are dedicated to providing 
comfort and assistance to those with breast cancer and to treating and 
curing this disease. We also remember those lost to breast cancer and 
extend our thoughts and prayers to their families.
     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 the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 2008 as 
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon Government 
officials, businesses, communities, health care professionals, 
educators, volunteers, and the people of the United States to continue 
our Nation's strong commitment to preventing, treating, and ultimately 
curing breast cancer.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 3, 
2008]

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