For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
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 under-standing
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.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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