Actor’s Death at 48 Highlights Colon Cancer Risk And Screening at 45
By Dr. John Whitfield
Colorectal Surgeon, Mission Hospital
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most preventable yet increasingly common cancers in the United States. Colorectal cancer has traditionally been associated with older adults, but that perception is changing. The widely reported death of actor James Van Der Beek at age 48 from colon cancer several weeks ago served as a sobering reminder that this disease is affecting people at younger ages.
For decades, routine colorectal cancer screening began at age 50 for individuals at average risk. In recent years, that recommendation was lowered to age 45 by leading medical organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. This change reflects growing evidence that colorectal cancer rates are rising among adults under 50.
Unfortunately, many people are still unaware that the screening age has changed. Medical guidelines evolve as research advances, and unless you’ve spoken recently with your healthcare provider, you may not realize you are now eligible to begin screening earlier. Increasing awareness of this update is critical.
Colorectal cancer is now one of the fastest-rising cancers in younger adults. Researchers continue to study why rates are increasing, with possible factors including lifestyle changes, obesity, diet, and environmental influences. While the exact cause of this shift is still being examined, what we know with certainty is that early detection makes a profound difference.
When colorectal cancer is found at an early stage, survival rates exceed 90 percent. Even more importantly, screening can prevent cancer entirely. During a colonoscopy, precancerous polyps can be identified and removed before they develop into invasive cancer. That ability to detect and prevent disease in a single procedure makes colonoscopy the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening.
Access to screening within your own community also matters. When preventive services are available close to home, it becomes easier to stay on schedule and prioritize long-term health.
It is also important to remember that colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms in its early stages. That is why screening is recommended even if you feel completely healthy. However, certain warning signs should never be ignored at any age. These include:
• Blood in the stool
• Persistent abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits
• Ongoing fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, speak with your primary care provider promptly.
Lowering the screening age from 50 to 45 reflects what physicians are seeing across the country. Despite this updated guidance, screening rates among adults ages 45 to 49 remain lower than recommended, often because people simply do not realize they are eligible.
If you are 45 or older and have not been screened, now is the time to start the conversation. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or certain inherited conditions, you may need to begin screening even earlier.
Colon Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to take action. Early detection offers more treatment options, better outcomes, and in many cases, complete prevention.
Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults — but with awareness and timely screening, it is also one of the most preventable cancers we face.
If you are 45 or older, schedule a screening. It is one of the most important steps you can take for your long-term health.