Whereas, More than 30 Michigan counties have higher than the state average death rate for colorectal cancer; and,

Whereas, In the year 2000, 38 percent of colorectal cancer cases diagnosed in the state of Michigan were found at an early curable state when there are often no symptoms; and,

Whereas, Regular screening is effective in detecting colorectal cancer, not only by identifying the disease early, but also by finding and removing the precursors of cancer; and,

Whereas, Only 31 percent of average-risk Michigan residents age 50 years and older receive appropriate screening for colorectal cancer according to the Michigan Cancer Consortium recommendations; and,

Whereas, Education can help inform the public of methods for early detection and prevention, such as efforts underway by the Colorectal Cancer Awareness network, the Michigan Cancer Consortium and its members, and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2004 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan, and I urge all citizens to learn more about this disease, to assist in prevention efforts, and to recognize the importance of colorectal cancer screenings.