James Van Der Beek, best known for his role in Dawson’s Creek, has died at 48 from colorectal cancer. In the months before his death, he spoke openly about the importance of early screening and awareness.
He shared that he felt healthy and fit when he was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. He had no major warning signs at first. Only a subtle change in his bowel habits led him to see a doctor. His message was clear: you can have colorectal cancer even without obvious symptoms.
Common warning signs include bleeding from the rectum, blood in the stool, ongoing stomach pain, fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and lasting changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea. Any change that continues for more than three weeks should be checked by a doctor.
Diagnosis often begins with a physical exam and stool tests to detect hidden blood. Further testing may include a colonoscopy, where a small camera examines the bowel for abnormal growths. Early detection greatly improves treatment success.
Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiotherapy. In early stages, surgery alone may be enough. More advanced cases may require additional therapies.
Van Der Beek’s legacy now includes a powerful reminder: do not wait for severe symptoms. Regular screening can save lives.