National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2011

Proclamation 8706 of September 1, 2011

National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2011

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-
related deaths among men in the United States. The
weight of this illness is felt not only by the men
living with and fighting prostate cancer, but also by
their families, friends, and communities who rally to
care for their loved ones. As we observe National
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we renew our
commitment to reducing the impact of prostate cancer on
our country by raising awareness and supporting
research that will lead to better ways to detect and
treat this disease.

Although the exact causes of prostate cancer are not
yet known, studies show certain factors--including age,
race, and family history--may increase the likelihood
of developing the disease. African Americans, in
particular, are at a higher risk than men of other
backgrounds. I encourage all men, especially those who
are at an increased risk, to talk to their doctors
about ways they can reduce their chances of developing
prostate cancer.

My Administration will continue to promote prostate
cancer research and treatment and raise awareness of
this illness. The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention support critical research projects and
education activities that bring a public health
perspective to the issues of early detection and
treatment. The Department of Defense and the National
Cancer Institute continue to support research,
investigate new cancer detection methods, and develop
innovative imaging methods and other diagnostic
techniques. The Affordable Care Act also expands
coverage and gives Americans greater freedom and
control over their health-care choices. Reforms in the
law ban insurance companies from dropping individuals
when they get sick or imposing lifetime dollar limits
on health benefits. These changes free cancer patients
to focus on getting better instead of worrying about
whether they will be able to afford their treatment.

During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we
reaffirm our support for prostate cancer patients and
survivors, and commend health-care providers,
advocates, and researchers for their dedication and
perseverance. Our combined efforts to increase
awareness of prostate cancer and bolster research will
help save lives, and our commitment to our fathers,
brothers, and sons will contribute to a brighter
tomorrow for future generations.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, 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 September 2011 as
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage
all citizens, government agencies, private businesses,
nonprofit organizations, and other groups to join in
activities that will increase awareness and prevention
of prostate cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
first day of September, in the year of our Lord two
thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-sixth.