James Van Der Beek, renowned for his portrayal of Dawson Leery on The WB's Dawson's Creek, surprised fans with the announcement that he has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
This type of cancer is one of the most prevalent globally, with approximately 150,000 Americans diagnosed each year. Depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed, colorectal cancer can be fatal.
So, what exactly is colorectal cancer, and how can it be prevented? Read on to learn more.
Colorectal Cancer Explained
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer, commonly referred to as colon or rectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum.
The disease often begins as a polyp, a tissue growth on the inner lining of these organs. While most polyps are benign, they can eventually progress to cancer.
Colorectal cancer is more prevalent in men, and approximately 90% of cases are attributed to environmental factors, including a low-fiber, high-fat diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Additional risk factors include physical inactivity, being overweight, and obesity.
The primary treatment for colorectal cancer is surgery to remove the affected portion of the colon. Other treatment options may include radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
Fortunately, the risk of developing colorectal cancer can be reduced through regular screenings that detect precancerous polyps and early-stage cancers.
Adopting a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding smoking can also significantly lower the risk.
As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure.
James Van Der Beek Says Tabloid Announced His Cancer Diagnosis Too Soon
After People announced Beek's cancer diagnosis, the actor took to Instagram to express his frustration that the tabloid revealed the news sooner than he intended.
Acknowledging that there is no playbook for sharing such devastating news, the 47-year-old initially planned to discuss his diagnosis in detail with the outlet "at some point soon" to raise awareness and share his story on his own terms.
However, those plans changed abruptly when he learned that the tabloid was preparing to publish the news.
In his post, he wrote, “That plan had to be altered early this morning.”
Although Van Der Beek did not specify when he was diagnosed, he mentioned that he had been managing it privately through treatment and focusing on his overall health.
“I’m in a good place and feeling strong,” he continued. “It’s been quite the initiation, and I’ll share more when I’m ready.”
He then apologized to his loved ones, who found out about his illness through the media, emphasizing that the announcement did not go as planned but that he chose to roll with it.
“Taking each surprise as a signpost pointing us toward a greater destiny than we would have discovered without divine intervention,” he added.
As he expressed gratitude for the love and support he received, he promised to provide more updates in the future.