PC utilities: Word installs on every use

Word installs on every use

I've read about this problem years ago but never suffered it until now. I run XP Pro SP2 with Office 2003. Since building this new PC with an initial install of the above S/W, Word starts with the Info box "Prepairing to install". Using the repair facility only speeds up the start process and I cannot think of another approach. Does anyone have any clues????