National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2003

Proclamation 7700 of September 1, 2003

National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Prostate cancer is the second most common form of
cancer among men in the United States. This year alone,
it is estimated that more than 220,000 new cases of
prostate cancer will be diagnosed and that nearly
29,000 men will die from this disease. During National
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we seek to increase
understanding about the risk factors of prostate
cancer, the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and the
benefits of detecting the disease in its earliest
stages, when it is most treatable.

Although the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown,
several factors have been found to increase the risk of
developing this disease. Men aged 65 years or older
make up about 70 percent of all diagnosed prostate
cancer cases. In addition, a man's risk of developing
prostate cancer doubles if a father or brother has been
diagnosed with the disease.

Making healthy choices is critical to prevent prostate
cancer and many other diseases. Research suggests that
some men may be able to reduce their risk of prostate
cancer by eating healthy foods and exercising on a
regular basis.

Early detection is important in successfully treating
prostate cancer. Preventative screenings can reveal a
man's current health status and identify whether he
needs to adjust his diet or behavior. I urge men,
particularly those over 50, to learn more about the
disease and to talk to their doctors about when to
start preventative screening. Healthcare providers can
advise men as to which tests are most appropriate.
Through early detection and treatment, we can reduce
the number of deaths caused by prostate cancer.

Today, our Nation is on the leading edge of new
discoveries. As we continue to make advancements in
medicine, my Administration remains committed to
learning the causes of prostate cancer and finding a
cure. My fiscal year 2004 budget proposal includes more
than $13 million for the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention to conduct, support, and promote efforts
that increase awareness of screening and early
detection, and more than $5.6 billion for cancer
research at the National Institutes of Health. Through
my HealthierUS Initiative, my Administration is also
encouraging all citizens to lead healthier lives by
eating right, exercising, and taking advantage of
preventative screening. By working together, we will
improve our ability to prevent, treat, and cure
prostate cancer.

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 laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim September 2003 as National
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon government
officials, businesses, communities, healthcare
professionals, educators, volunteers, and all people of
the United States to reaffirm our Nation's strong and
continuing commitment to prevent, treat, and cure
prostate cancer.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B