A Growing Threat to Younger Adults
Colorectal cancer is no longer just an older adult’s disease. In the U.S., roughly 150,000 people are diagnosed annually, and the disease has become a leading cause of cancer-related death for men and women under 50.
John Marshall of Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center explained the alarming trend:
“We’re now seeing more and more people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s developing colon cancer. At the beginning of my career, nobody that age had colorectal cancer. This shift is shaking us all.”
Early detection is critical. Survival rates are dramatically higher when the disease is caught in its earliest stages.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Health experts urge people to pay attention to their bodies. Symptoms to watch for include:
Persistent changes in bowel habits
Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
Ongoing abdominal pain or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or shortness of breath
Feeling like the bowel isn’t fully emptied
James Van Der Beek’s story is a powerful reminder that even seemingly healthy, active adults are not immune. His bravery in speaking openly about his diagnosis has inspired countless people to get screened and take action.
He leaves behind not only a grieving family but also a legacy of vulnerability, advocacy, and grace — proving that courage extends far beyond the screen.
If you notice any warning signs or haven’t had a colonoscopy, don’t wait. Early screening saves lives — share this story and help raise awareness.