Categories: Blog

by Family Physicians

Share

Categories: Blog

by Family Physicians

Share

Yesterday the world lost a beloved actor and father too soon. James Van Der Beek, known to so many from Dawson’s Creek and beyond, passed away at age 48 after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. His wife shared that he faced his final days “with courage, faith, and grace,” surrounded by love.

What the Numbers Say

Colorectal cancer, what doctors often call colon or rectal cancer, has become increasingly common in younger adults. In fact, recent medical data shows that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death among adults under age 50 in the United States and rates in younger populations are on the rise.

This Type of Cancer Can Be Treatable, If Caught Early

When colorectal cancer is found early, before it has spread, it is one of the most treatable cancers. That’s because screening tests like colonoscopy can detect not only cancer but precancerous changes and remove them before they become malignant.

Symptoms to Know

Warning signs can vary, but some common ones include:

• Persistent change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, narrowing of stool)

• Blood in the stool

• Unexplained abdominal discomfort

• Fatigue or unexplained weight loss

If any of these symptoms occur, even in younger adults, it’s worth bringing them up with your doctor.

When to Get Screened

Guidelines now recommend starting colorectal cancer screenings around age 45, and some people with risk factors may benefit from talking to their doctor even earlier. These screenings save lives, often before symptoms ever appear.

A Call to Action

James Van Der Beek’s passing is heartbreaking, but if his story encourages even one person to talk to their doctor, get screened, or pay attention to their body, that would be a precious legacy.

Please schedule your screening if you’re due. And urge loved ones to do the same. Early detection matters.

Related Posts

  • One thing about our office… we truly are a team. And when we get everyone together in one room, you know a quick selfie is going to happen! 📸 This year is bringing exciting growth for our family practice, with several new services and opportunities coming that will benefit both our patients and our staff. We’re grateful for a team that cares deeply about the people who walk through our doors every day. With all this growth, we’re also looking to add a Nurse or Medical Assistant to our amazing team. If you or someone you know would love working in a positive, patient-focused environment… tell them Tiffany sent you! 😉 Big things are coming this year, and we can’t wait to share them with all of you.

  • Did you notice it stayed lighter a little longer last night? That’s because we just “sprang forward” with Daylight Saving Time! While losing an hour of sleep can feel a little rough on a Monday morning, the extra evening daylight brings a wonderful opportunity for something good, movement and fresh air. Daylight Saving Time was first widely adopted during World War I as a way to make better use of daylight hours and conserve energy. Over the years, it has become something many of us look forward to because it signals the approach of spring, longer days, and more time outside. And those longer evenings can be great for your health. That extra hour of daylight is the perfect reminder to: • Take a walk after dinner • Ride a bike with your family • Play outside with the kids or grandkids • Simply step outside for some fresh air and sunshine […]

  • A little rain today, but a whole weekend ahead of us. Sometimes a rainy day is nature’s way of reminding us to slow down, rest, and take care of ourselves. Use today as a small check-in with your health: •Drink a little extra water •Take a short walk when the rain lets up •Get some good rest this weekend •Choose something nourishing for your body Health doesn’t have to be big changes all at once. Sometimes it’s just the small choices we make each day. From all of us at the office, we hope you stay warm, stay healthy, and enjoy the weekend ahead. If you need us, we’re always here for you.

  • March always feels like a fresh start. The days get longer. The air feels lighter. We start thinking about growth, change, and taking care of ourselves in new ways. At our office, that’s exactly what we focus on, helping you move forward confidently in every stage of life. Clear Answers. No Surprises. One thing our patients tell us they appreciate most is that we take the time to explain things clearly. Whether you’re considering a No-Scalpel Vasectomy, starting weight loss injections, or exploring hormone therapy, we believe you deserve to understand the process fully, without confusion or pressure. We don’t rush conversations. We answer the hard questions. We make sure you feel comfortable. Because healthcare decisions are personal. VASECTOMIES Our doctor offers the modern no-scalpel technique, which means: • A small opening instead of a large incision • Minimal downtime • Quick in-office procedure • Over 99% effective after confirmation testing Most […]