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Skriven 2006-10-30 23:30:58 av Whitehouse Press (1:3634/12.0)
Ärende: Press Release (061030f) for Mon, 2006 Oct 30
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National Diabetes Month, 2006
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For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 30, 2006

National Diabetes Month, 2006
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America



National Diabetes Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of risk
factors, prevention, and treatment of this serious disease.

Diabetes is a chronic illness affecting nearly 21 million Americans of all
ages and backgrounds. It can cause blindness, nontraumatic amputations,
kidney disease, and increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Though
diabetes affects Americans of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, certain
groups are at higher risk, including Hispanic, Asian/Pacific, African, and
Native Americans. A small percentage of people with the disease suffer from
Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes. These individuals are
usually children or young adults whose bodies are unable to make insulin.
Type 2 diabetes is more common and frequently occurs in individuals who
have a family history of the disease and in people who are obese, inactive,
or older. This form of diabetes stops a person's body from using insulin
properly. By maintaining healthy eating habits and exercising daily,
Americans can help prevent and reduce the effects of diabetes. Individuals
should consult with their doctors and receive a preventive screening to
help detect diabetes in its earliest stages.

My Administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to preventing and
finding a cure for diabetes. We have supported funding for diabetes
education programs and research initiatives, and this year the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that more than $1 billion will be
spent on diabetes research. The NIH and the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention are sponsoring the National Diabetes Education Program, which
has helped inform millions of Americans about the risk factors of diabetes
and the benefits of making healthy choices. By working together we can
continue to make significant strides in the battle to beat this disease and
provide a brighter future for many of our citizens.

As we observe National Diabetes Month, we recognize the medical
professionals, researchers, and all those whose tireless efforts are making
a positive difference in the lives of Americans suffering from this
disease. This month we reaffirm our commitment to fighting diabetes, and
through medical advances, preventive programs, and quality health care, we
will help diabetes patients live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

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 2006 as National
Diabetes Month. I call upon all Americans to learn more about the risk
factors and symptoms associated with diabetes and to observe this month
with appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

GEORGE W. BUSH

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