Actor James Van Der Beek has partnered with precision oncology company Guardant Health to raise awareness for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. The collaboration highlights the new FDA-approved Shield™ blood test, a more convenient screening option for adults aged 45 and older. This initiative marks the first time Van Der Beek is publicly advocating for screening since revealing his own CRC diagnosis.
“I was 46 years old, in great physical shape, and had no idea I was living with stage 3 colorectal cancer,” said Van Der Beek, known for roles in Varsity Blues and Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23. “It’s the second most deadly cancer, but the most curable when caught in its early stages, making screening crucial. I was relieved to learn about Guardant’s Shield blood test because it’s a more pleasant and convenient way to get screened. Simply put, getting screened can save your life.”
Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern in the U.S., causing over 50,000 deaths each year. While the five-year survival rate exceeds 90% with early detection, it drops to just 13% in late stages. Despite this, an estimated 50 million eligible adults avoid screening, partly because traditional methods are considered inconvenient or unpleasant. Statistics show that 75% of patients who die from CRC were not screened according to guidelines.
The Shield test aims to address this gap. It is the first blood test approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a primary screening option for average-risk adults aged 45 and older. The test can be ordered by any prescribing healthcare provider and involves a simple blood draw. Following its FDA approval, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recently included the Shield test in its updated CRC screening guidelines.
“We are grateful to James for the work he has done to raise awareness with his personal story,” said AmirAli Talasaz, co-CEO of Guardant Health. “Our goal is to ensure that everyone who should be screened for colorectal cancer gets screened, and the Shield blood test is a major step forward in making screening more accessible.”
Dr. Angel Lazo, an internal medicine physician, noted the test’s practical benefits in a clinical setting. “In my practice, it can be difficult for patients to screen with traditional methods,” he said. “Adding the option of Shield has made it much more convenient and expanded screening to more people, giving peace of mind to them—and to me as their doctor.”
