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.

On Nov. 3, actor James Van Der Beek shared an exclusive statement with People, revealing he has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The “Dawson’s Creek” star says he’s “been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.”