American Heart Month, 2007

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Part III

The President

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Proclamation 8104--American Heart Month, 2007

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Title 3--
The President

Proclamation 8104 of February 1, 2007

American Heart Month, 2007

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the
United States, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives
each year. During American Heart Month, we renew our
commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease by
increasing public awareness of this deadly disease and
understanding of how it can be prevented.

Today, millions of Americans live with some form of
cardiovascular disease, including congenital heart
disease, coronary heart disease, and high blood
pressure. Individuals can reduce their chance of
developing these and other types of heart disease by
exercising regularly, maintaining healthy eating habits
and weight, avoiding tobacco use, and monitoring
cholesterol and blood pressure levels. All Americans
should speak with their doctors about the dangers of
this disease and get regular preventive screenings.

My Administration continues to help raise awareness of
heart disease through initiatives such as ``The Heart
Truth'' campaign, sponsored by the National Heart,
Lung, and Blood Institute. First Lady Laura Bush serves
as the National Ambassador of ``The Heart Truth''
campaign and works with partner organizations as part
of her Women's Health and Wellness Initiative. The
campaign informs women about the dangers of this deadly
illness and encourages them to make cardiovascular
health a priority. This year marks the fifth
anniversary of the campaign, which uses the red dress
as a symbol to remind women to protect their heart
health and inspire them to take action. New data shows
that fewer women are dying from heart disease, and more
women are aware heart disease is the number one killer.

During American Heart Month, we honor the medical
professionals, researchers, and all those whose
tireless efforts are making a positive difference in
the lives of those battling heart disease. By working
together, we can continue to help the American people
live longer and healthier lives.

In acknowledgement of the importance of the ongoing
fight against cardiovascular 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
2007 as American Heart Month, and I invite all
Americans to participate in National Wear Red Day on
February 2, 2007. I also 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
recognizing and reaffirming our commitment to fighting
cardiovascular disease.

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