James Van Der Beek Dies After Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis
Actor James Van Der Beek, best known for his role as Dawson Leery in “Dawson’s Creek,” died at the age of 48.
In 2024, Van Der Beek publicly announced his colorectal cancer diagnosis. The TV star shared he was dealing with the diagnosis privately and was “taking steps to resolve it.”
His family announced his death with a statement on his Instagram:
Increased colorectal cancer cases in young adults
This year, a study from the American Cancer Society listed colorectal cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths among people under 50. While analyzing cancer death data from 1990 to 2023, researchers found that colorectal cancer deaths have increased 1.1% each year since 2005.
Screening guidelines for colorectal cancer
In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated its colorectal screening guidelines, recommending that people at average risk begin screening at age 45, five years earlier than previously recommended.
According to Mark Friedman, MD, a gastroenterologist in Moffitt Cancer Center's Gastrointestinal Oncology Department, lowering the screening guidelines was a step toward earlier detection.
“Colonoscopies are a cancer preventative test,” Friedman said. “Ninety percent of colon cancers grow from pre-cancerous growths called polyps. If someone like me can remove a polyp before it becomes cancer, we can effectively prevent it from happening. That's why a colonoscopy remains the gold standard screening exam for colon cancer.”
Risk factors
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lifestyle factors may contribute to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:
- Lack of regular physical activity
- A diet low in fruits and vegetables
- A low-fiber and high-fat diet or a diet high in processed meats
- Excess body weight and obesity
- Alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
Common symptoms of colorectal cancer include the following:
- Unusual changes in bowel habits that persist for several days, such as narrow stools, diarrhea or constipation
- A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Very dark or bright red stools, which may indicate blood
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
Specialists like Friedman emphasize the importance of staying on track with recommended screening and being vigilant about following up on abnormal symptoms, regardless of age.
“I would also encourage young adults to talk to their families about any and all cancers in their family that might point to a genetic syndrome,” Friedman said. “This information could change your screening age and frequency.”
