The White House

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release

September 01, 2011

Presidential Proclamation — National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among
men in the United States. The weight of this illness is felt not only by
the men living with and fighting prostate cancer, but also by their
families, friends, and communities who rally to care for their loved ones.
As we observe National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we renew our
commitment to reducing the impact of prostate cancer on our country by
raising awareness and supporting research that will lead to better ways to
detect and treat this disease.

Although the exact causes of prostate cancer are not yet known, studies show
certain factors– including age, race, and family history– may increase the
likelihood of developing the disease. African Americans, in particular, are
at a higher risk than men of other backgrounds. I encourage all men,
especially those who are at an increased risk, to talk to their doctors
about ways they can reduce their chances of developing prostate cancer.

My Administration will continue to promote prostate cancer research and
treatment and raise awareness of this illness. The Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention support critical research projects and education
activities that bring a public health perspective to the issues of early
detection and treatment. The Department of Defense and the National Cancer
Institute continue to support research, investigate new cancer detection
methods, and develop innovative imaging methods and other diagnostic
techniques. The Affordable Care Act also expands coverage and gives
Americans greater freedom and control over their health-care choices.
Reforms in the law ban insurance companies from dropping individuals when
they get sick or imposing lifetime dollar limits on health benefits. These
changes free cancer patients to focus on getting better instead of worrying
about whether they will be able to afford their treatment.

During National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, we reaffirm our support for
prostate cancer patients and survivors, and commend health-care providers,
advocates, and researchers for their dedication and perseverance. Our
combined efforts to increase awareness of prostate cancer and bolster
research will help save lives, and our commitment to our fathers, brothers,
and sons will contribute to a brighter tomorrow for future generations.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America,
by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of
the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2011 as National Prostate
Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage all citizens, government agencies,
private businesses, nonprofit organizations, and other groups to join in
activities that will increase awareness and prevention of prostate cancer.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this

first day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of
the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-sixth.

BARACK OBAMA