American Heart Month, 2004

Proclamation 7754 of February 2, 2004

American Heart Month, 2004

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the
United States. It affects men and women of every age
and race. During American Heart Month, we encourage all
Americans to join the fight against heart disease and
to learn more about how to prevent it.

More than 64 million Americans suffer from one or more
forms of cardiovascular disease, including high blood
pressure, coronary heart disease, congestive heart
failure, stroke, and congenital heart defects. Many of
the risk factors that can lead to heart disease, such
as high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and
diabetes, can be prevented or controlled. Research has
shown that men and women who lead healthy lifestyles,
including making healthy food choices, getting regular
exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and choosing
not to smoke or drink excessively, can significantly
decrease their risk of heart disease.

Heart disease is responsible for the deaths of one in
three women in the United States. To make women more
aware of the danger of heart disease, the National
Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National
Institutes of Health has joined with the Department of
Health and Human Services and other national
organizations to launch a nationwide campaign called
``The Heart Truth.'' This important campaign encourages
women to learn more about heart health, to lead
healthier lives, and to talk with their doctors about
their risk for developing heart disease.

During American Heart Month, I urge all Americans to
learn more about heart health and to reduce their risk
factors for serious heart conditions. By making healthy
choices, we can live longer and better lives.

In recognition of the important ongoing fight against
heart 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
2004 as American Heart Month. I 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
reaffirming our commitment to combating heart disease.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
second day of February, in the year of our Lord two
thousand four, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.

(Presidential Sig.)B