James Van Der Beek has always been focused on staying healthy. He embraced a mix of workouts like weightlifting, Pilates, and even football training. He consumed mostly organic food and explored various health trends.
However, a shift in his bowel habits led him to the doctor. Initially, he dismissed it as a minor issue, but when symptoms persisted, he underwent a colonoscopy. At 46, he learned he had stage 3 colon cancer—news he kept private for over a year.
This diagnosis highlights a troubling trend: more young adults are being diagnosed with advanced cancers, often when they display subtle symptoms. In 2024, the FDA approved the Shield blood test, which can detect early signs of colon cancer through a simple blood draw. Van Der Beek has become an advocate for early screening, urging people to get tested starting at 45.
“Don’t let my ‘could haves’ become yours,” he emphasized. He’s passionate about raising awareness, especially since the age for initial screenings has dropped from 50 to 45 in recent years.
Living with cancer has shifted his perspective. He experienced bouts of loss, feeling detached from his roles as a father and husband. “I had to ask myself, ‘Who am I now?'” he reflected. Learning to lean on friends and community has been an unexpected source of support.
Interestingly, research shows that screening rates more than doubled when blood tests like the Shield test were made accessible. Increasingly, people are opting for these at-home tests, making screening less daunting.
Van Der Beek’s journey underscores the importance of early detection. Statistics reveal that colon cancer is highly treatable when caught early. He encourages others to be proactive about their health. “If I can save anyone from going through this, that’s magic,” he said.
The landscape of health awareness is shifting—many young people are sharing their own experiences on social media, leading to a growing dialogue about preventable diseases. As more symptomatic individuals step forward, it helps reduce stigma and encourages others to seek help sooner.
Start the conversation. If you or someone you know has faced similar challenges, sharing your story can be powerful. For more insights on colon cancer and screenings, check out the resources from the American Cancer Society.
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