James Van Der Beek recently announced that he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer — but what does the disease entail? “Colorectal cancer is a cancer that arises in your colon or your rectum,” gastroenterologist Roshini Raj exclusively told Us Weekly on Monday 4.

James Van Der Beek is opening up about a health battle. The “Dawson’s Creek” alum told CNN in a statement Sunday that he has colorectal cancer. “I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family,” his statement said.