What is bowel cancer? Symptoms to know after James Van Der Beek’s death

Health & Fitness
12 Feb 2026 • 6:15 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the fourth most prevalent cancer in the UK and the second leading cause of cancer-related death.
  • Dawson’s Creek actor James Van Der Beek’s tragically passed away aged 48 after he revealed in November 2024 that he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer.
  • Key symptoms to watch out for include a persistent change in pooing habits, such as going more or less often, or experiencing diarrhoea or constipation.
  • Another significant warning sign is blood in your poo or bleeding from your bottom, which should be checked by a GP immediately.
  • Other symptoms include a pain or lump in your tummy, and unexplained weight loss, which can occur even if eating normally.
  • Constant and unexplained fatigue is also a symptom, often linked to anaemia caused by the cancer, which can be detected by a simple blood test.

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