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Actor James Van Der Beek has revealed he’s battling colorectal cancer, news confirmed by PEOPLE. The 47-year-old star shared the diagnosis exclusively with the publication, emphasizing that he’s been actively seeking treatment with the unwavering support of his loved ones.
"There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good," Van Der Beek assures fans.
Colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, originates in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine vital to the digestive system.
Despite this health challenge, Van Der Beek has remained professionally active. Recently, he appeared on an episode of the TV series Walker and is set to star in the Tubi original film Sidelined: The QB and Me, premiering November 29th.
Family time remains a top priority for Van Der Beek. He and his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, along with their six children - Olivia, Joshua, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, and Jeremiah – recently enjoyed a memorable trip to Egypt, with Van Der Beek sharing captivating photos on Instagram.
The actor’s upcoming project further underscores his commitment to raising awareness about colorectal cancer. He will participate in The Real Full Monty, a two-hour special airing December 9th, where a group of male celebrities will courageously shed their clothes to shine a spotlight on prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancer testing and research.
Joining Van Der Beek on this impactful initiative are actor Taye Diggs, Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones, and longstanding Dancing with the Stars judge Bruno Tonioli.
"Embarrassingly, I thought I was just doing Anthony Anderson a favor and supporting cancer. But then once we got there and we really started to talk about these issues, everyone started opening up and we got to know each other on a different level," Diggs recently reflected to PEOPLE about the special’s powerful impact.
The show, inspired by the critically acclaimed 1997 film The Full Monty, is executive produced by Anthony Anderson.
Time.news Interview: Exploring the Challenges and Insights on Colorectal Cancer
Editor: Good afternoon! Today, we have a special guest with us, Dr. Emily Hughes, a leading oncologist specializing in colorectal cancers. As many of you know, actor James Van Der Beek recently revealed his battle with colorectal cancer, which has drawn significant public attention. Dr. Hughes, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Hughes: Thank you for having me. It’s an important topic to discuss, especially with public figures raising awareness.
Editor: Absolutely. James Van Der Beek has shared that he’s feeling optimistic during his treatment. How significant is mental health in the overall journey of someone fighting cancer?
Dr. Hughes: Mental health is crucial. It can greatly influence a patient’s ability to cope with treatment and maintain a sense of normalcy. Positive mental health can improve quality of life and may even positively affect treatment outcomes.
Editor: Van Der Beek mentioned the support of his loved ones. How does a support system impact a patient’s experience with colorectal cancer specifically?
Dr. Hughes: A strong support network is vital for any cancer patient, but with colorectal cancer, there may be additional challenges around privacy and stigma. Support from family and friends can help alleviate feelings of isolation, provide emotional comfort, and encourage patients to adhere to treatment plans.
Editor: According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. Can you briefly explain the significance of early detection and what symptoms to look out for?
Dr. Hughes: Early detection is key, as it can significantly improve outcomes. Symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, ongoing abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. Regular screening is recommended, especially for those over 45, as it can catch abnormalities before they develop into cancer.
Editor: Van Der Beek’s announcement has echoed throughout social media, and many fans have offered their encouragement. From a medical perspective, how can public figures like him help in raising awareness about this disease?
Dr. Hughes: They play a vital role! Public figures can significantly raise awareness and educate their followers on the importance of screening and recognizing symptoms. By sharing their journey, they normalize discussions around a topic that many find uncomfortable, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment for others.
Editor: It’s powerful to see individuals use their platforms for good. What steps can general audiences take to educate themselves better about colorectal cancer?
Dr. Hughes: Starting with reputable sources like the American Cancer Society is essential. Communities can organize screenings, host informational sessions, and share resources online. Awareness campaigns also play a pivotal role in encouraging discussions, especially about preventive measures and healthy lifestyle choices that may reduce risk.
Editor: To wrap up, what would you like to say to someone who might be feeling fearful after hearing about a public figure’s cancer diagnosis?
Dr. Hughes: It’s natural to feel concerned, but it’s essential to remember that advances in medicine have made significant strides in treatment and outcomes. If you or someone you know is facing similar fears or symptoms, reaching out to a healthcare professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hughes, for sharing your insights with us today. Your expertise is invaluable, especially as we navigate these challenging conversations. And to our readers, remember to take care of yourselves and seek support when needed.
Dr. Hughes: Thank you for having me! Let’s keep the conversation going.