Former “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The actor announced his diagnosis in an interview with PEOPLE published Nov. 3, which read: “I have 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. There’s reason for optimism, and I’m feeling good.”  The 47-year-old Van Der Beek did not provide any other details about his diagnosis.

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum. Symptoms include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, bloated stomach, unexplained weight loss, vomiting and fatigue.

Van Der Beek is best known for his portraying Dawson Leery on “Dawson’s Creek” from 1998 to 2003.  He has been married to Kimberly Van Der Beek since 2010, and they share six children:  Olivia, 14; Joshua, 12; Annabel, 10; Emilia, 8; Gwendolyn, 6; and Jeremiah, 3.

Editorial credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com