Proclamation 9936-National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2019
Issued 2019-09-30 by Donald J. Trump
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Trump issued this proclamation designating October 2019 as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The proclamation formally recognizes breast cancer as a national health concern and honors the over 3.4 million Americans battling the disease. It notes that more than 268,000 women and approximately 2,600 men are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in the United States, and that 41,000 lives are lost each year, making it the second leading cause of cancer death among American women.
The proclamation encourages Americans, especially those with family history or increased risk, to consult healthcare providers about their likelihood of developing breast cancer. It emphasizes that early detection through regular screening mammograms and timely treatment can significantly improve survival chances. The proclamation also mentions the administration's regulatory reforms aimed at speeding drug development and FDA approval, noting that several new breast cancer therapies were approved in 2019, and references the "Right to Try" legislation signed in 2018 that gives terminally ill patients greater access to experimental drugs.
This proclamation does not create new programs or change federal law. It serves as a formal call for citizens, government agencies, businesses, nonprofits, and media to increase awareness about breast cancer prevention and treatment during the month of October. It invites state governors and other officials to join in recognizing the observance.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9936-National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2019" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to breast cancer. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Donald J. Trump, 2019 Proclamation 9936—National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2019 September 30, 2019 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our Nation honors the courage and strength of the over 3.4 million Americans who are battling this terrible disease and remembers loved ones whose lives have been affected by breast cancer. In memory of those we have lost, we pledge never to waver from our ongoing search for effective and innovative medical advancements to treat and prevent this disease. In the United States, more than 268,000 women and approximately 2,600 men are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. While deaths from breast cancer have declined over time, it remains the second most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death overall among American women, with a staggering 41,000 lives lost each year. For this reason, Melania and I urge our fellow Americans, especially those who have a family history or may be at increased risk, to consult with their healthcare providers about the individual likelihood of developing breast cancer. Early detection and regular screening mammograms, followed by timely treatment upon diagnosis, can signifi