Whereas, Cancer of the colon and rectum is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in Michigan, with 985 men and 950 women dying of this disease in 2002; and,

Whereas, In the year 2001, only 39 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, Less than 50 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, Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risks should seek screening at an earlier age and with more frequency

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 the State of Michigan; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2005, as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to learn more about this disease, to assist in prevention efforts, and to recognize the importance of colorectal cancer screenings.