Van Der Beek was a vocal advocate for colorectal cancer awareness, especially among younger adults. Initially dismissing a subtle change in bowel habits, he later learned such symptoms should not be ignored. Despite being healthy with no family history, he was diagnosed following a colonoscopy.
Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger adults and is now a leading cause of cancer death for those under 50. Doctors stress the importance of early detection and urge attention to symptoms like changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.