Blood in the urine, a condition known as hematuria, can indeed be a symptom of bladder cancer, among other potential causes. Hematuria is categorized into two types: gross hematuria and microscopic hematuria.

1. Gross Hematuria: This type of hematuria is characterized by visible blood in the urine, which can give the urine a pink, red, or cola-like color. Gross hematuria is a common symptom of bladder cancer, especially when the tumor is present on the inner lining of the bladder (superficial tumors) and can easily bleed when irritated or disturbed. However, gross hematuria can also be caused by other factors such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, trauma, or other medical conditions affecting the urinary tract.

2. Microscopic Hematuria: Microscopic hematuria is when blood is present in the urine but is not visible to the naked eye. It can only be detected under a microscope during a urine test. Microscopic hematuria can also be a sign of bladder cancer, especially when combined with other risk factors like age, smoking history, and occupational exposures. However, like gross hematuria, microscopic hematuria can have various causes including infections, kidney disease, urinary tract stones, and even certain medications.

It's important to note that while hematuria can be a symptom of bladder cancer, it doesn't necessarily mean that everyone experiencing blood in their urine has bladder cancer. Many benign conditions can also lead to hematuria, and some individuals might have temporary instances of blood in their urine due to factors like physical activity, dehydration, or minor urinary tract irritations.

If someone experiences hematuria, it's crucial to consult a medical professional, such as a urologist, who can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause. This evaluation might include a physical examination, medical history review, urine tests, imaging studies (like CT scans or ultrasounds), and potentially a cystoscopy (a procedure to examine the inside of the bladder using a thin tube with a camera). Based on the results, appropriate steps can be taken to diagnose and address the underlying condition, whether it's bladder cancer or another issue.