Blood in Your Urine? It Could be a Sign of Bladder Cancer
By Erica H. Lambert, MD
Board Certified Urologist & Robotics Expert
Shore Physicians Group
Bladder cancer is a disease that often goes unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage, making awareness and early detection critical. This type of cancer develops in the bladder, the organ responsible for storing urine, and occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably in the bladder lining. While it can affect anyone, certain risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
Each year in the United States, tens of thousands of people are diagnosed with bladder cancer. In 2025 alone, an estimated 84,870 new cases are expected, with men disproportionately affected—about 65,080 cases compared to 19,790 in women. The mortality rate remains concerning, with approximately 213,000 deaths from bladder cancer annually.
The Hidden Risks Behind Bladder Cancer
One of the biggest culprits behind bladder cancer is smoking. It is the single most significant risk factor, with smokers facing a risk up to four times higher than non-smokers. The reason? Harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke enter the bloodstream, get filtered by the kidneys, and accumulate in the bladder, damaging its lining over time. Age and gender also play a role, as the disease is more common in older adults and significantly more prevalent in men.
But smoking isn’t the only concern. Occupational exposure to certain chemicals—such as those found in dyes, paints, and industrial solvents—has also been linked to bladder cancer. Chronic urinary tract infections, long-term catheter use, and even genetic predisposition can contribute to a person’s risk. In rare cases, a parasitic infection called schistosomiasis has been associated with squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder.
Recognizing the Warning Signs
The most common—and often the first—symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. This may be visible to the naked eye or only detected under a microscope during routine testing. Unfortunately, many people, especially women, mistake this symptom for a urinary tract infection and delay seeking medical attention. Unlike a UTI, bladder cancer doesn’t usually come with pain or discomfort in its early stages, making it even easier to overlook.
When symptoms persist, a urologist may recommend a cystoscopy, a procedure similar to a colonoscopy but for the bladder. This allows doctors to examine the bladder directly and detect any abnormalities. Additional imaging tests, such as CT scans and ultrasounds, can also help in diagnosis, along with urine cytology, which looks for abnormal cells in the urine.
Breaking Barriers in Treatment
The treatment for bladder cancer depends on its stage and severity. The first step is typically to remove the tumor, but further intervention may be needed depending on whether the cancer has spread. Fortunately, medical advancements have expanded treatment options, offering patients more effective and less invasive solutions.
Innovative treatments—such as intravesical chemotherapy delivered directly into the bladder, and for advanced cases, robotic-assisted bladder removal surgery—are improving outcomes and are available right here at Shore. At Shore Cancer Center, a member of the Penn Cancer Network, we take a multidisciplinary approach, working closely with top medical oncologists like Dr. Vijay Sandilya and Penn Medicine Radiation Oncologist Dr. John Wilson. Our tumor board meets monthly to discuss complex cases, ensuring that patients receive the most comprehensive and personalized care—all without having to travel far from home.
Prevention: What You Can Do
The most powerful step you can take to reduce your risk of bladder cancer is quitting smoking. The benefits increase over time; within 25 years of quitting, a former smoker’s risk becomes nearly equivalent to someone who has never smoked.
Lifestyle adjustments, such as staying well-hydrated and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, may also help protect the bladder. While there is no standard screening test for bladder cancer, smokers and individuals at higher risk should consider regular urinalysis to check for blood in their urine. Early detection remains key.
Final Thoughts
Bladder cancer is a serious condition, but awareness can make all the difference. If you notice blood in your urine, don’t ignore it—seek medical advice. While there may be other explanations, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, only a proper evaluation can rule out cancer. Your health is too important to leave to chance.
About Dr. Erica Lambert
Erica H. Lambert, MD, is a board-certified urologist and robotic surgery expert with over 15 years of experience specializing in robotic, laparoscopic, and minimally invasive treatments for bladder, kidney, and prostate cancer. She earned her medical degree from Thomas Jefferson University and completed advanced training at New York-Presbyterian and Vanderbilt University. Recently relocating to South Jersey, Dr. Lambert is excited to bring her expertise to the community and provide cutting-edge urologic care at Shore Medical Center. Dr. Lambert will begin seeing patients at Shore Cancer Center beginning April 29.
