Proclamation 9401-National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, 2016
Issued 2016-02-29 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama issued this proclamation to designate March 2016 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. The action itself is purely ceremonial—it creates a formal recognition to bring national attention to colorectal cancer, which affects more than 130,000 Americans each year and causes nearly 50,000 deaths annually, making it the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. The proclamation encourages citizens, government agencies, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to join in activities that increase awareness and prevention of this disease.
This proclamation affects all Americans by drawing public attention to colorectal cancer's risk factors and the importance of screening. It specifically highlights that individuals between ages 50 and 75 should get regular screenings, and directs people to Cancer.gov for information about early warning signs and prevention tips. The proclamation also mentions that the Affordable Care Act requires health plans to cover certain cancer screening tests at no additional cost and prohibits insurance companies from charging more for pre-existing conditions like cancer.
This matters because it uses the visibility of the presidency to educate Americans about a deadly but often preventable disease. While the proclamation doesn't create any new laws or require anyone to do anything, it serves as a platform to raise public awareness about colorectal cancer risks, symptoms, and the importance of screening. The proclamation also announced a broader cancer initiative led by Vice President Biden aimed at accelerating cancer research and proposed a $1 billion investment to support this work.
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 9401-National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, 2016" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to colorectal 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 Barack Obama, 2016 Proclamation 9401—National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, 2016 February 29, 2016 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Every year, more than 130,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and it kills nearly 50,000—making it the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Colorectal cancer touches too many, and together, we must work to lift up those who have been affected by it and all who remain vulnerable to it. This month, as we remember the loved ones we have lost and lift up those who continue to fight colorectal cancer, we strive to save lives by raising awareness of this disease and encouraging everyone to take measures to prevent it. Although age, obesity, and certain genetic mutations can increase risk of colorectal cancer, all Americans should be aware of its risk factors, which include being physically inactive, having an unhealthy diet, smoking cigarettes, and consuming alcohol in excess. People who have had inflammatory bowel disease or who have a family history of colorectal cancer may also be at particularly high risk. While people of all ages should consult a physician about their susceptibility, individuals between ages 50 and 75 are encoura