What You Should Know About Colon Cancer in the Wake of James Van Der Beek’s Death
James Van Der Beek, 48, known for his roles in “Varsity Blues” and “Dawson’s Creek”, has died of colon cancer. He was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2023 and sought treatment. Here’s what you should know.
What Are Common Symptoms of Colon Cancer?
The Mayo Clinic lists a few common symptoms of colon cancer, which include:
- Frequent diarrhea or constipation
- Unintentional weight loss
- Stomach pains, cramps, or gas
- Feeling unusually tired
- Feeling that the bowel doesn’t fully empty during a bowel movement
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool. You’ll see blood on toilet paper.
Some issues, like polyps, which are growths inside the colon, may not have any symptoms. Getting a colonoscopy can detect them, and they can be removed during the procedure.
Van Der Beek noticed a change in bowel habits but attributed it to coffee and stopped drinking it, according to People magazine. Still not feeling quite right, he got a colonoscopy, which is the gold standard for detecting colon cancer.
When Should I Get Screened for Colon Cancer?
Experts used to recommend getting screened through colonoscopy around age 50, but have lowered the age to 45, given the increase in cases in the U.S.
How Common is Colon Cancer?
The American Cancer Society says that this year, approximately 108,860 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer. It’s the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the fourth leading cause in women. Risk factors include excess body weight, a sedentary lifestyle, having type 2 diabetes, a diet high in red meat, smoking, and alcohol use.
Van Der Beek’s diagnosis came as a surprise; he said he led a healthy, active lifestyle. The father of six will be missed on the big and small screen.