James Van Der Beek’s Colorectal Cancer and Prevention Tips


James Van Der Beek officially announced in an interview with People that he has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer at 47 years old. The Dawson’s Creek star shared that he has been “privately dealing with this diagnosis and has been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.” As far as his prognosis, Van Der Beek added: “There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.” 

Now, doctors are increasingly advocating for younger people to get tested for colorectal cancer. We asked Steve A. Lee-Kong, MD, Chief of Colorectal Surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center about signs of colon cancer in women and tips for preventing colon cancer. 

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer can start in either the colon or the rectum, often as a growth called a polyp. Depending on where the cancer begins, it may be referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer. 

Signs of colorectal cancer in women 

The most common signs of colorectal cancer are generally the same in women and men. Perhaps the most important note is that many patients, particularly those whose colorectal cancers are found during screening examinations, present no symptoms at all, says Dr. Lee-Kong. However, there are few health changes that may be associated with this type of cancer. 

“If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are persistent or worsening, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible,” urges Dr. Lee-Kong. “Early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer significantly increase the chances of a positive outcome.”

Changes in bowel habits 

Persistent diarrhea or constipation that lasts longer than a few days can be a potential sign of colorectal cancer, says Dr. Lee-Kong. Additionally, feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels can also be a symptom as can changes in stool consistency. This includes narrow stools (especially if they are pencil-thin), mucus in the stool, bright red or dark blood in the stool or from the rectum, he explains. 

Abdominal discomfort

woman sitting on the couch holding stomach in pain
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Cramps, gas, bloating or pain around the abdomen may also occur in the presence of colorectal cancer, notes Dr. Lee-Kong. Nausea and vomiting are less common, he adds, but can occur as well.  

Unintentional weight loss and decreased energy levels

Losing significant weight without trying to do so or with no explanation is a common symptom of many cancers, including colorectal cancer, Dr. Lee-Kong explains. Colorectal cancer also commonly leads to extreme fatigue and weakness, he notes. 

Anemia 

Iron-deficiency anemia can also be a sign of bleeding in the digestive tract, which can be caused by colorectal cancer, says Dr. Lee-Kong. Less common symptoms of colorectal cancer related to anemia include shortness of breath and dizziness, he adds. 

Colorectal cancer risk factors 

There are genetic, health and lifestyle factors that raise a person’s risk of colorectal cancer. 

Age

“The risk of colorectal cancer significantly increases after age 45,” says Dr. Lee-Kong. “Most cases are diagnosed in people over this age. However, according to the National Cancer Institute, colorectal cancer is rising in adults younger than 55. One in 5 new cases of colorectal cancer in the United States is occurring in young people. This is about twice the rate in 1995, so we’re really concerned and we’re trying to understand why.” 

In response to the increase, he says, cancer screening guidelines recommend that people at average risk start getting screened at age 45. 

Family history

Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer, especially if they were younger than 60, increases your risk, Dr. Lee-Kong explains. The risk increases even more if you have multiple family members affected.

He points out that African Americans and Ashkenazi Jews have a slightly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. 

Health conditions

The existence of certain types of polyps (adenomatous polyps) found during a colonoscopy can develop into cancer, says Dr. Lee-Kong. Additionally, people with long-standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease have an increased risk as well. 

While rare, some inherited syndromes, like Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer, he notes. 

If you have type 2 diabetes, research suggests this may also up your risk of colorectal cancer due to metabolic dysregulation

Lifestyle factors 

A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fruits, vegetables and fiber may play a role in developing colorectal cancer, Dr. Lee-Kong explains, as well as lack of regular exercise and being overweight or obese. Long-term smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also risk factors. 

Potential strategies for preventing colon cancer 

Female patient talking with doctor
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While we know it’s not possible to completely prevent any type of cancer, there are certain modifications that may help lower your risk. 

Early testing

“There is a dangerous misconception that colorectal cancer is an ‘older person’s disease,’” says Dr. Lee-Kong. “This assumption is problematic because it delays diagnosis. Younger adults who experience symptoms might dismiss them as something less serious, like hemorrhoids or IBS. Doctors, too, may not initially suspect colorectal cancer in younger patients, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Because of delayed diagnosis, younger people are often diagnosed at later stages when the cancer is more difficult to treat.” 

Diagnostic options include:

  • Colonoscopy: This is the gold standard, says Dr. Lee-Kong. The test allows visualization and removal of polyps before they become cancerous. The recommendation starts at age 45 for average-risk individuals.
  • Stool-based tests like the FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) can detect blood in stool. Annual fecal testing is recommended. Tests like Cologuard can detect blood, DNA and other markers and is recommended to be done every three years, notes Dr. Lee-Kong. 
  • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is another option. This is a test that examines the lower colon and is recommended every five years.
  • CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy) uses CT scans to create images of the colon and is recommended every five years as well. 

“I highly recommend that everyone, no matter what your age, talk to your doctor about which screening test is right for you and how often you should be screened,” offers Dr. Lee-Kong. 

Lifestyle modifications 

For additional precautions you can take on a daily basis, Dr. Lee-Kong advises increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to obtain more fiber. You should also try to reduce saturated and trans fats, and opt instead for healthy fats like olive oil and avocados, he says. 

Increasing your physical activity is also imperative. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week, suggests Dr. Lee-Kong. 

In addition to limiting consumption of alcohol as it’s linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer, if you are an active smoker, you should quit as soon as possible as this also increases the risk of many cancers, including of the colon.

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.



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