James Van Der Beek, the actor best known for his leading role in the American television series Dawson’s Creek, died on Wednesday, February 11, at the age of 48, following a battle with colon cancer. The diagnosis, revealed in November 2024, brought attention to the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults.
Van Der Beek spoke openly about his illness in the final years of his life, frequently updating fans on his condition. He first noticed a subtle change in his bowel movements, a symptom he initially attributed to his coffee consumption, according to a recent interview with Healthline. He underwent a colonoscopy which revealed he had stage 3 colon cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States when figures for men and women are combined, according to the American Cancer Society. It often begins with the formation of benign polyps in the large intestine, which can become cancerous over time and spread to other parts of the body.
The actor’s death highlights a concerning trend: colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger generations. American Cancer Society research published in 2025 indicated that colorectal cancer is one of 17 different types of cancer on the rise among Gen X and millennials. While the exact cause of this increase remains unknown, experts are actively investigating potential contributing factors.
Van Der Beek emphasized the importance of early screening, stating in an August 2025 interview with USA Today, “To me, the biggest misunderstanding is that you need to have symptoms to get screened. I was very healthy, in amazing cardiovascular shape, and had full-blown Stage 3 cancer, and I didn’t know it.” This underscores the often-undetected nature of early-stage colorectal cancer.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer can be subtle and easily dismissed. Changes in bowel habits, such as increased frequency or alterations in stool consistency, are a key indicator. Other potential symptoms include blood in the stool, fatigue linked to anemia, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, and abdominal discomfort. However, as Van Der Beek’s experience demonstrates, the absence of noticeable symptoms does not preclude the presence of the disease.
The National Cancer Institute estimates that colon and rectal cancers account for approximately 7.6% of all new cancer cases. In 2026, the American Cancer Society projects around 108,860 new cases of colon cancer will be diagnosed.
While there is no known single cause for the rise in cancer cases among young people, factors such as obesity and a diet high in processed meats and low in fiber may increase risk. Medical professionals now recommend that screening for colorectal cancer begin at age 45, a change from the previous recommendation of age 50.
Recognizing the Signs: A Practical Guide
There are three primary signals to be aware of:
- Blood in the stool without an obvious cause. This can range in color from bright red to dark red.
- A change in bowel habits, such as increased frequency or a shift in stool consistency (more liquid or harder).
- Persistent pain or bloating in the lower abdomen, accompanied by a feeling of fullness.
Additional symptoms to watch for include unexplained weight loss, a sensation of incomplete bowel emptying after defecation, and unusual fatigue or dizziness.
It’s important to note that experiencing these symptoms doesn’t automatically indicate colorectal cancer, but consulting a doctor is crucial if they persist for three weeks or more, or if you are feeling unwell. Keeping a symptom diary can be helpful when discussing concerns with a healthcare professional.
Understanding the Stages of Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is categorized into stages, ranging from 1 to 4, based on the extent of the cancer’s spread:
- Stage 1: The cancer is small and has not spread.
- Stage 2: The cancer is larger but has not yet spread.
- Stage 3: The cancer has spread to nearby tissues, such as lymph nodes.
- Stage 4: The cancer has metastasized to distant organs, forming secondary tumors.
Survival rates are significantly higher when colorectal cancer is diagnosed early. More than 90% of individuals diagnosed with stage 1 colorectal cancer survive for five years or more, compared to 44% of those diagnosed at stage 4. Advances in genetic testing are also allowing for more personalized treatment approaches.
Van Der Beek’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of proactive health management and early detection. His willingness to share his story has undoubtedly raised awareness and encouraged others to prioritize their well-being.
