For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 4, 2002
National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Proclamation
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
This year, more than 148,000 people will be diagnosed with
colorectal cancer, and more than 56,000 people will die from this
disease. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of
cancer-related death in the United States, yet it is one of the most
highly preventable forms of cancer. Early diagnosis is critical to
survival. Research shows that 91 percent of patients with
localized colorectal cancer survive for 5 years after diagnosis, yet
only 37 percent of all diagnoses occur at this stage. The
remaining 63 percent of cases are not discovered until the disease has
spread throughout the body.
Because 75 percent of new cases occur in persons with no known risk
factors, regular colorectal cancer screenings are crucial to
prevention. Even for an individual without symptoms, screenings are
extremely important. For those over 50 and for individuals
with a family history of cancer, screenings should be scheduled on a
regular basis. I am pleased to note that Medicare coverage
for colonoscopies was expanded in 2001 to provide this screening to
more beneficiaries, and many commercial health plans now cover this
cost.
Many people avoid colorectal cancer screening due to fear or
anxiety, however, it is important for all Americans to understand the
importance of this routine procedure. During National
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, I encourage all Americans to learn
more about this disease, to assist prevention efforts, and to recognize
the importance of colorectal screenings.
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 March 2002 as
National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. I call upon all
Americans to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their
loved ones from this disease.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this Second day of
March, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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