Cancer Control Month, 2003

___________________________________________________________________

Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 7655 of March 24, 2003

Cancer Control Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Millions of Americans are winning the fight against
cancer, but much work remains. More than 3,500
Americans are diagnosed with cancer each day, and more
than 45,000 will die from the disease this month. Yet,
experts believe that half of all cancer deaths are
preventable. With exercise, nutrition, and healthy
behavior, we can help prevent this deadly disease and
save lives. During Cancer Control Month, we renew our
commitment to over coming cancer by learning more about
its prevention and early detection.

To protect against disease, Americans can make smart
choices that will lead to longer, healthier lives. A
critical step that Americans can take to improve their
health and reduce the risk of cancer is to avoid the
use of tobacco. Also, avoiding excessive drinking and
sun exposure can help guard against cancer and help
ensure better health.

Improvements in diet and fitness can help prevent many
serious health problems. A diet rich in fruits and
vegetables and regular physical activity help protect
us from illness and can add years to our lives.
Research suggests that we can decrease the number of
cancer deaths in America by one-third simply by
changing our diets and getting more exercise.

Preventative health screening is vital to early
detection and treatment of cancer. Regular screening
can save lives and enhances the well-being of our
Nation. Screening can detect many forms of cancer at
earlier, less dangerous stages, allowing patients to
seek treatment and defeat the cancer before it spreads.
I urge all Americans to talk to their doctors about
when to start preventative screening and how often to
schedule appointments.

Our Nation's investment in cancer prevention and
research is making a difference, and recent medical
discoveries offer hope to many Americans. The National
Cancer Institute (NCI) is currently sponsoring more
than 60 clinical trials on cancer prevention and
screening. One major clinical trial for men and women
at risk for lung cancer began this year, and is
investigating the most effective method of detecting
lung cancer in order to reduce deaths from this
devastating disease.

As part of my HealthierUS Initiative and my
Administration's ongoing commitment to helping the
American people live healthier lives, I encourage all
Americans to eat right, get more exercise, and take
advantage of preventative screening. To learn more
about ways to prevent cancer, you can talk to your
doctor or contact the NCI's Cancer Information Service
at 1-800-4-CANCER or visit its Internet address at
http://www.cancer.gov. Through healthy lifestyles, a
better understanding of this disease, and new
technology, I believe we will achieve a victory over
cancer.

In 1938, the Congress of the United States passed a
joint resolution (52 Stat. 148; 36 U.S.C. 103) as
amended, requesting the President to issue an annual
proclamation declaring April as ``Cancer Control
Month.''

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, do hereby proclaim April 2003
as Cancer Control Month. I

encourage concerned citizens, government agencies,
private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other
interested groups to join in activities that will
increase awareness of measures all Americans can take
to prevent and control cancer.

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

(Presidential Sig.)B