Proclamations Proc. 7536 our countries, and the important role that Greek Americans play in our Na- tion. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of March, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independ- ence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7536 of April 1, 2002 Cancer Control Month, 2002 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation Our Nation is making important progress in the fight against cancer. Today, 8.9 million Americans have survived this disease, and new studies indicate that both cancer incidence and death rates have declined in recent years. Research and new technology have helped improve our ability to prevent, detect, and treat cancer. We understand better and are communicating more effectively the preventative power of regular exercise, a balanced diet, not smoking, and greater health awareness. Despite this progress, cancer re- mains a major public health problem that affects millions of lives. Each day, more than 1,500 Americans die from cancer and 3,500 are diag- nosed with some form of the disease. But we are closing in on major break- throughs that will lead to new cancer therapies and life-saving cures. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is leading the way as it explores hun- dreds of methods to combat and prevent cancer. Recognizing that early de- tection of cancer often makes a difference between life and death, the NCI is utilizing revolutionary genetic and biochemical processes to develop tests that more effectively detect cancer at its earliest stage. Scientists are discovering that the use of ultraviolet light fluorescence to examine the lungs is more likely to identify precancerous lesions than cur- rent techniques. Other NCI researchers are investigating drugs that may stop cancerous growths by preventing new blood vessels from reaching the tissues. And a new class of drugs, known as bisphosphonates, shows great promise against cancer that has spread to the bone. The NCI's important work, in coordination with other public and private health agencies, is helping to reduce the incidence of cancer and is assisting cancer survivors to lead richer, fuller, and longer lives. The National Comprehensive Cancer Control Initiative, sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is a valuable resource to sup- port and coordinate cancer control efforts at the Federal, State, and local levels. This project helps ensure that cancer prevention, detection, and treatment programs across the country work effectively with each other by reducing duplicated efforts and missed opportunities. My Administration is strongly committed to the fight against cancer and will continue to support Federal cancer control programs. 63
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