Researchers are racing to understand why younger populations are being hit harder than ever
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Hackensack NJ, The world is mourning a 90s cultural icon. James Van Der Beek, the actor who defined a generation as Dawson Leery on Dawson’s Creek, has passed away at the age of 48. His family confirmed today that the actor died following a brave battle with colorectal cancer.
While Van Der Beek will always be remembered as a teenage heartthrob, his passing at such a young age highlights a harrowing medical trend: the rapid rise of colon cancer in adults under 55.
A “Young Person’s Disease”? The Alarming New Data
Colorectal cancer was once considered a disease of the elderly. However, Van Der Beek is part of a staggering demographic shift. According to the National Cancer Institute, 1 in 5 new colorectal cancer cases in the U.S. now occurs in people younger than 55—nearly double the rate recorded in 1995.
As of this year, colorectal cancer has become the second leading cause of cancer death for men and women combined in the United States, with approximately 53,000 deaths expected in 2024 alone.
Why Are Cases Spiking in Gen X and Millennials?
Researchers are racing to understand why younger populations are being hit harder than ever. Dr. Lee-Kong suggests that environmental factors and modern lifestyles are likely contributors. Key risk factors include:
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Dietary Habits: High intake of processed foods and low fiber.
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Lifestyle: Sedentary behavior and low physical activity levels.
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Body Weight: Rising rates of obesity.
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Substance Use: Alcohol and tobacco consumption.
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Genetics: Conditions like Lynch syndrome can cause an onset as early as age 40.
45 is the New 50: New Screening Guidelines
In direct response to this surge, national health guidelines have changed. If you are at average risk, you should begin colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. If you have a family history of the disease, experts recommend getting screened even earlier.
Red Flags: Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Early detection is the most effective way to beat this disease. Medical professionals urge anyone experiencing the following symptoms to consult a doctor immediately:
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Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool.
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Blood in Stool: Bright red or very dark/tarry stools.
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Abdominal Distress: Persistent gas, cramps, or pain.
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Unexplained Weight Loss: Drastic weight drops without a change in diet or exercise.
Van Der Beek’s Legacy of Awareness
In one of his final Instagram posts, Van Der Beek shared that he had been “dialing in his overall health with greater focus than ever before” while undergoing treatment. According to Hackensack Meridian Health, his journey serves as a powerful reminder that no one is “too young” for a checkup.
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The worst part of a colonoscopy is the preparation the day prior.
IF you are young, and not high risk, at least do the virtual colonoscopy or cologuard