PROCLAMATION
CANCER EDUCATION AND PREVENTION MONTH
 

To All To Whom These Presents Shall Come:

WHEREAS, Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Kentucky, and the Commonwealth ranks first in the nation in overall cancer incidence rates and second in the nation in overall cancer mortality rates; and

WHEREAS, Cancer disparities exist throughout Kentucky among black citizens, rural citizens, and citizens living in eastern Kentucky; and

WHEREAS, Approximately 40% of cancers are preventable as the result of modifiable risk factors and early screenings; and

WHEREAS, Programs such as the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center’s Summer Health Experience program for Kentucky high school students and the Appalachian Kentucky Career Training in Oncology Program for high school and undergraduate students from Appalachian Kentucky counties serve as models for providing cancer education, research training, and community outreach that prepares students for cancer-related careers and promotes cancer awareness and education; and

WHEREAS, Cancer education and prevention month ask youth-serving institutions, including schools, libraries, and civic organizations, to promote cancer awareness and to specifically offer cancer awareness and education activities to increase youths’ understanding of cancer, cancer risk factors, and modifiable behaviors that can lower their risk;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ANDY BESHEAR, Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, do hereby proclaim October 2024, as CANCER EDUCATION AND PREVENTION MONTH in Kentucky.