National Diabetes Month, 2008

Proclamation 8314 of October 30, 2008

National Diabetes Month, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Many Americans, of all ages and backgrounds, are
affected by diabetes. National Diabetes Month is an
opportunity to inform individuals about the risk
factors, prevention, and treatment of this serious
disease.

Diabetes is a debilitating disease that results from
the body's inability to produce or use insulin
effectively. Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile
diabetes, usually affects children and young adults who
are dependant on medication for their lack of insulin.
The most common form of diabetes is Type 2 diabetes.
Family history and lifestyle risk factors contribute to
the possibility of developing Type 2 diabetes. Regular
physical activity, healthy eating habits, and
consultation with a doctor can help prevent and reduce
the effects of this disease.

My Administration is committed to preventing diabetes
and finding a cure for this disease. We have provided
substantial funding for diabetes education programs and
research initiatives. Through the Department of Health
and Human Services and other organizations, the
National Diabetes Education Program is helping increase
awareness among Americans about the risk factors of
diabetes and the benefits of making healthy choices.
Our Nation must continue to support initiatives that
will help turn today's research opportunities into
tomorrow's medical success stories.

During National Diabetes Month, we celebrate the
medical professionals, researchers, and all those whose
time, talents, and energy support the fight against
diabetes. Through these efforts and enhanced public
awareness of this serious disease, we will work to
continue to bring the hope of a healthier future to
more Americans.

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 November 2008 as National
Diabetes Month. I call upon all Americans to learn more
about the risk factors and symptoms associated with
diabetes and to observe this month with appropriate
programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth 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.