Whereas, Regular screenings for colorectal and rectum cancer is effective in not only identifying the disease early but also by finding and removing polyps, the precursors of cancer; and,

Whereas, More than 90 percent of people who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer are over the age of 50, yet less than 50 percent of these individuals receive screening for colorectal cancer; and,

Whereas, Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risks should seek screening at an earlier age and with more frequency; and,

Whereas, Adopting a healthy diet at a young age can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer; and,

Whereas, The colorectal cancer screening program funded by the Michigan Department of Community Health provides free colorectal cancer screenings to the uninsured and underinsured in 15 counties; and,

Whereas, The Michigan Department of Community Health, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Network, Michigan Cancer Consortium, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Education are all committed to educating the public on the methods of early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby declare March 2009 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan, and I urge all citizens to learn more about this disease, assist in prevention efforts, and recognize the importance of colorectal cancer screenings.