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.