National Public Health Week

WHEREAS, every year, chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes are responsible for millions of premature deaths; and

WHEREAS, nearly one million Americans die every year from diseases that could be prevented; and

WHEREAS, even small preventive changes and community initiatives can make a big difference in living healthier lives; and

WHEREAS, Americans miss two and one-half billion days of work each year because of these illnesses, and that lost productivity adds up to more than one trillion dollars; and

WHEREAS, injuries, unexpected accidents and violence affect people daily in all aspects of life; and

WHEREAS, unintentional injuries, such as motor vehicle crashes, poisonings and burns, rank among the top ten causes of death for people ages 44 and younger; and

WHEREAS, catching and preventing these illnesses and incidents before they develop is the key to improving our state and nation’s health; and

WHEREAS, there are many small steps we can take to begin leading healthier lives; sometimes it just takes motivation; and

WHEREAS, uniting around this year’s theme, “A Healthier America Begins Today: Join the Movement,” we can work to encourage more Americans and their communities to take preventive measures to help improve their lives:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby do proclaim the week of April 2 through April 8, 2012, as

National Public Health Week

in the state of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 26th day of March 2012.

      

Governor Robert Bentley