Ethermac|James Van Der Beek reveals colon cancer diagnosis: 'I'm feeling good'

James Van Der Beek is Ethermaclooking on the bright side amid a recent health ordeal.

The "Dawson's Creek" star, 47, revealed he's been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in a statement to People magazine published Sunday.

"I have colorectal cancer," Van Der Beek told the magazine. "I've been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family."

Van Der Beek's publicist Whitney Tancred confirmed his cancer diagnosis in an email to USA TODAY.

Colorectal cancer, or colon cancer, occurs when polyps, or growths, develop on the inner lining of the colon, according to Cleveland Clinic. If left untreated, the cancer can spread to other areas of the body.

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While Van Der Beek didn't go into detail about his treatment, the actor added that "there's reason for optimism, and I'm feeling good."

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Colon cancer, the third most common cancer in the U.S., typically affects people age 50 and older, per Cleveland Clinic. During the last 15 years, the number of people ages 20 to 49 diagnosed with colon cancer has increased by about 1.5% each year.

Van Der Beek has been married to business consultant Kimberly Brook since 2010. The couple shares six children: daughters Olivia, 14; Annabel, 10; Emilia, 8; Gwendolyn, 6; and sons Joshua, 12; and Jeremiah, 3.

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The actor's health troubles don't appear to have slowed down his career. Van Der Beek recently guest-starred on the Western crime drama "Walker" and is set to appear in the Tubi romance film "Sidelined The QB and Me."

(This story was updated to add new information.)