For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 24, 2003
Cancer Control Month 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Millions of Americans are winning the fight against cancer, but
much work remains. More than 3,500 Americans are diagnosed with cancer
each day, and more than 45,000 will die from the disease this month.
Yet, experts believe that half of all cancer deaths are preventable.
With exercise, nutrition, and healthy behavior, we can help prevent
this deadly disease and save lives. During Cancer Control Month, we
renew our commitment to over-coming cancer by learning more about its
prevention and early detection.
To protect against disease, Americans can make smart choices that
will lead to longer, healthier lives. A critical step that Americans
can take to improve their health and reduce the risk of cancer is to
avoid the use of tobacco. Also, avoiding excessive drinking and sun
exposure can help guard against cancer and help ensure better health.
Improvements in diet and fitness can help prevent many serious
health problems. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables and regular
physical activity help protect us from illness and can add years to our
lives. Research suggests that we can decrease the number of cancer
deaths in America by one-third simply by changing our diets and getting
more exercise.
Preventative health screening is vital to early detection and
treatment of cancer. Regular screening can save lives and enhances the
well-being of our Nation. Screening can detect many forms of cancer at
earlier, less dangerous stages, allowing patients to seek treatment and
defeat the cancer before it spreads. I urge all Americans to talk to
their doctors about when to start preventative screening and how often
to schedule appointments.
Our Nation's investment in cancer prevention and research is making
a difference, and recent medical discoveries offer hope to many
Americans. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is currently sponsoring
more than 60 clinical trials on cancer prevention and screening. One
major clinical trial for men and women at risk for lung cancer began
this year, and is investi-gating the most effective method of detecting
lung cancer in order to reduce deaths from this devastating disease.
As part of my HealthierUS Initiative and my Administration's
ongoing commitment to helping the American people live healthier lives,
I encourage all Americans to eat right, get more exercise, and take
advantage of preventative screening. To learn more about ways to
prevent cancer, you can talk to your doctor or contact the NCI's Cancer
Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER or visit its Internet address at http://www.cancer.gov. Through
healthy lifestyles, a better understanding of this disease, and new
technology, I believe we will achieve a victory over cancer.
In 1938, the Congress of the United States passed a joint
resolution (52 Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103) as amended, requesting the
President to issue an annual proclamation declaring April as "Cancer
Control Month."
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, do hereby proclaim April 2003 as Cancer Control Month. I
encourage concerned citizens, government agencies, private businesses,
nonprofit organizations, and other interested groups to join in
activities that will increase awareness of measures all Americans can
take to prevent and control cancer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth
day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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