Proc. 7618 Title 3--The President to be an important part of our progress against this disease. I also commend the families and caregivers of individuals suffering from Alzheimer's dis- ease who provide the care and support to their loved ones and carry the daily burden of this tragic 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 November 2002 as National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and activi- ties. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of October, 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-seventh. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 7618 of October 31, 2002 National Diabetes Month, 2002 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects approximately 17 million Ameri- cans. During National Diabetes Month, we renew our commitment to pre- venting and eradicating this illness. Diabetes interferes with the body's ability to process sugars normally and can lead to adverse complications of the eyes, heart, kidneys, or nerves. There are two major types of diabetes, and both have debilitating effects on organ systems. Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disorder that destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The young people who are affected by this disease must maintain their health by taking insulin and carefully regulating their diets. Type 2 diabe- tes, which is also known as "adult onset diabetes," is a metabolic disorder that is linked to a combination of genetics, excess weight, and lack of exer- cise. The most common form of diabetes is type 2, which comprises 95 per- cent of the diabetes cases in our Nation. It usually occurs in adults but now also affects a growing number of children who do not get enough exercise. At least 16 million Americans are currently at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. To ensure the future health of our Nation, Americans must safeguard our children and our families from diabetes by encouraging good health and regular exercise. Following the guidelines for good nutrition, getting enough physical exercise, and maintaining proper weight can help prevent diabetes and aid those suffering from it to reduce the chance of severe com- plications associated with the disease. Doctors have found that even minor weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes can improve glucose control, decrease dependence on medications, and enhance quality of life. My Administration is committed to fighting diabetes and its complications through advanced research funded by the National Institutes of Health 168
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