Ronald Reagan

“ Digestive diseases rank third in the total economic burden of illness in the United States. In terms of human discomfort and pain, mortality, and burden on the Nation's economy, they represent one of our most serious health problems. ”

“ I urge the people of the United States, and educational, philanthropic, scientific, medical, and health care organizations and professionals to participate in appropriate ceremonies to encourage further research into the causes and cures of all types of digestive disorders so as to alleviate the suffering of their victims. ”

“ Its goals are to encourage the digestive diseases community to educate the public and other health care practitioners to the seriousness of these diseases and the methods available to prevent, treat, and control them, and to inform the public that diseases of the digestive system are a major health priority. ”