National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Week, 2002

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 7608 of October 11, 2002

National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Week, 2002

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common fatal genetic
diseases in the United States. During this week, we
renew our commitment to fighting this deadly disease
that affects an estimated 30,000 American men, women,
and children.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that can be
passed on directly from parents to children. Millions
of Americans are unknowing, symptom-free carriers of
the defective gene that can cause this disease. When
both parents are carriers of the abnormal gene, their
children have a 1 in 4 chance of being born with the
disorder. Individuals who suffer from cystic fibrosis
experience frequent lung infections and digestive
problems caused by cell disorders in the lining of the
lungs, small intestines, sweat glands, and pancreas.

Though there is as yet no known cure for cystic
fibrosis, scientists and researchers have made great
progress in understanding and treating this disease.
Thanks to these efforts, the average life expectancy
for people with cystic fibrosis has increased
significantly in recent decades, and it is now
approximately 30 years. In addition, advances in
antibiotic therapy and the management of lung and
digestive problems have improved the quality of life
for these individuals.

Recent genetic research may also accelerate the
discovery of a cure. To help advance the work to end
cystic fibrosis, my Administration is dedicated to
increasing Federal funding for medical research at the
National Institutes of Health. Until cystic fibrosis is
eliminated, we are hopeful that our research efforts
will continue to extend and improve the quality of life
of those stricken with this grave disease.

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 October 13 through October
19, 2002, as National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Week. I
call upon all Americans to observe this week with
appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B