The aggressive cancer that killed James Van Der Beek: one of the deadliest forms of the disease

Actor James Van Der Beek has died at the age of 48 after battling for almost three years against one of the most aggressive and lethal types of cancer: colorectal cancer. This is one of the most common tumors worldwide and one of the leading causes of cancer death. However, it is also one of those with the best prognosis when detected at an early stage. This disease originates in the large intestine and, in most cases, begins silently from small benign lesions called polyps. Its development is usually slow, which offers a key opportunity for prevention and early diagnosis. From the age of 45 or 50, the risk increases, although certain factors may bring it forward

How it originates

Most colorectal cancers form from polyps that grow in the inner lining of the large intestine. These small growths do not usually cause symptoms in their early stages, but over time some can turn into malignant tumors.

The fact that evolution is progressive and relatively slow is an advantage from a medical point of view. It allows polyps to be detected and removed before they become cancerous. Colonoscopy is the main diagnostic tool, as it not only allows visualization of the inside of the colon and rectum, but also removal of suspicious lesions in the same procedure.

Once cancer has developed, treatment depends on the stage of the disease. Surgery is usually the basic therapeutic option, especially in the early stages. In more advanced cases, it may be supplemented with chemotherapy or radiotherapy to reduce the risk of relapse or to treat disseminated disease

Symptoms, risk factors and how to prevent it

One of the main challenges of colorectal cancer is that it may not give clear signs at first. When symptoms do appear, they may include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, abdominal pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss and anemia

There are also risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing it. Older age is the most relevant, but sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking and a diet rich in fat and low in fiber also play a role. A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps also increases the risk, making closer monitoring advisable in these cases

The positive news is that it is one of the cancers with the highest cure rates when detected early. Screening programs, which usually include fecal occult blood tests and regular colonoscopies, allow lesions to be identified before they develop. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits also helps reduce the risk.