Every year, almost two million new cases of colorectal cancer, a serious form of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. Another victim was James Van Der Beek († 48), an actor from the popular series Dawson’s World. , experts drew attention to the symptoms of this disease, which must be consulted with a doctor immediately.
- Actor James Van Der Beek died of colorectal cancer at the age of 48.
- Van Der Beek drew attention to the importance of early diagnosis of this disease.
- Typical symptoms are blood in the stool, weight loss, fatigue, pain or changes in bowel movements.
The American actor succumbed to the disease on Wednesday, February 11, with his family announcing the heartbreaking news on social media. “Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed away peacefully this morning. He lived his last time with courage, faith and dignity. There are many things we want to talk about. His wishes, love for humanity and respect for time. Those days will come. We now ask for peace and privacy to mourn our loving husband, father, son, brother and friend,” they wrote in a post on Instagram.
During his battle with cancer, Van Der Beek worked to raise awareness of colorectal cancer and was a strong advocate for early diagnosis of the disease. He often talked about how quickly and quietly this type of cancer can become dangerous. “I think the biggest mistake a lot of people make is the one I made myself. I didn’t get tested until after I had serious health problems. That’s not how it works. You may not have any symptoms and still have cancer“, he said.
“There was no warning sign or anything noticeable. I felt healthy. I was in great shape, but I was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer and I didn’t even know it,” Van Der Beek noted, saying that he only saw a doctor when he noticed a subtle change in his bowel habits.
What symptoms should you watch out for?
among the common symptoms of colorectal cancer (colon and rectal cancer) belong bleeding from the anus, blood in the stool, unintentional weight loss, excessive fatigue, cramps or abdominal pain. Other warning signs can be lumps in the abdomen or the feeling that you have not completely emptied yourself after visiting the toilet.
As with Van Der Beek, you may experience changes in bowel movements, which may include sudden constipation or diarrhea. Therefore, if you notice any fluctuations in stool consistency that last more than three weeks, you should see a doctor.
How is colorectal cancer treated?
As with many other types of cancer, colorectal cancer is most often treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. If the disease is not widespread, a small laparoscopic operation is usually enough to remove it. However, more advanced stages may require adjunctive treatment, i.e. a procedure followed by chemotherapy to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
In some cases, it is necessary to remove part of the intestine and create a stoma. It is a temporary or permanent outlet on the abdomen, which serves to eliminate waste substances from the body. It is most often formed when the intestine cannot be reconnected with other parts of the digestive tract.
