Dr. Frank Lukens, MD

Dr. Frank Lukens, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care at his clinic in Jacksonville, FL. He is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Your gastroenterologist is your primary partner in lifelong digestive health, creating personalized plans for prevention, coordinating crucial screenings, and managing the wellness of your entire digestive system—from esophagus to liver—to keep you feeling your best for years to come. He serves all ages and is committed to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health. Dr. Lukens’ interests include Therapeutic endoscopy/ERCP, hepatobiliary and pancreatic disease, Double-balloon enteroscopy, and Capsule endoscopy. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, he brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and compassionate care to his patients and their families. He earned his medical degree from Crisco Chiropractic College in 1995 and is Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine. To confirm if Dr. Lukens is currently accepting new patients, please call (904) 953-2000. Dr. Frank Lukens offers consultations in Spanish.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Frank Lukens is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Frank Lukens can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Frank Lukens provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Gastrointestinal Malabsorption: Gastrointestinal malabsorption means your digestive system isn't absorbing nutrients properly, which can lead to serious health problems if not caught early; regular checkups and a healthy diet can help prevent complications.
• Ulcer: While some ulcers are unavoidable, many are preventable. By addressing risk factors and seeking timely medical attention for symptoms like persistent stomach pain, you can significantly reduce your chances of developing serious complications.
• Benign Neoplasm of the Digestive System: Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect benign growths in your digestive system early, allowing for timely management and reducing the risk of future issues.
• Reflux Esophagitis: Regular check-ups and paying attention to symptoms like persistent heartburn can help detect reflux esophagitis early, allowing for timely intervention and preventing more serious issues down the line.
• Pyloric Stenosis: Managing pyloric stenosis effectively through prompt medical care prevents complications like severe vomiting, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
• Non-Neonatal Jaundice: Preventing long-term health problems associated with non-neonatal jaundice involves prompt medical attention; addressing the root cause early can help avoid more severe liver damage.
• Pancreatitis: Protecting your pancreas starts with understanding your risk factors for pancreatitis and making lifestyle changes to minimize them, such as a balanced diet and responsible alcohol intake.
• Intestinal Malabsorption Carbohydrate: If your intestines aren't absorbing carbohydrates efficiently, you may experience symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. Regular checkups can help identify this issue early and prevent more serious problems.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Taking steps to prevent or manage GERD, such as dietary changes and medication, can safeguard your digestive system's health and prevent future problems.
• Jejunum Cancer: Early detection of jejunum cancer is crucial for effective treatment and better survival rates, emphasizing the significance of prompt medical attention for persistent digestive issues.
• Gastritis: Managing gastritis effectively, whether through medication or lifestyle changes, helps prevent chronic inflammation and potential long-term damage to your stomach.
• Stomach Stenosis: Managing conditions that may lead to stomach scarring or inflammation, such as ulcers or infections, can help prevent the narrowing of the stomach passage, known as stomach stenosis.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Frank Lukens offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• pH Probe: To prevent serious complications, a pH probe accurately measures stomach acid reflux, aiding in the early diagnosis and treatment of esophageal disorders.
• Fecal Impaction Removal: This procedure relieves discomfort and complications associated with severe constipation, promoting better gut health.
• Gastroenterology Procedures: Regular gastroenterology procedures, such as colonoscopies and endoscopies, offer crucial preventative screening opportunities, potentially saving your life by finding and removing precancerous polyps.
• Transendoscopic Stent Placement: For improved digestive function and the prevention of blockages, a transendoscopic stent can help restore normal flow in your digestive tract, improving your overall health.
• Colonoscopy With Polypectomy: Taking charge of your colon health, a colonoscopy with polypectomy allows for the early detection and removal of polyps, reducing your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Invest in your long-term well-being with a flexible sigmoidoscopy. This painless exam allows for the early detection of colorectal cancer and other lower bowel diseases.
• Anoscopy: An anoscopy is a quick procedure that allows your doctor to directly examine the anal canal and rectum for any abnormalities, helping catch potential problems early.
• Endoscopic Billiary Stone Removal: To avoid the severe health risks associated with gallstones, endoscopic biliary stone removal offers a proactive solution by removing obstructing stones and improving bile flow.
• Colonoscopy: Protect your future by scheduling a colonoscopy; this procedure provides an in-depth look at your colon, enabling early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.
• Capsule Endoscopy: Proactively safeguard your digestive health with capsule endoscopy—a non-invasive way to examine your small intestine for ulcers, polyps, and other issues that might otherwise go undetected.
• Endoscopy: Take control of your digestive health with an endoscopy – a minimally invasive procedure that screens for and helps prevent serious conditions affecting your esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
• Liver Biopsy: For early detection and prevention of serious liver problems, a liver biopsy helps your doctor determine the severity of liver disease and tailor a treatment plan to protect your long-term health.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Gastroenterology in Florida.

Dr. Frank Lukens is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Patient's life:

• By following a personalized plan for regular checkups and a balanced diet, a patient proactively managed their gastrointestinal health, reducing the risk of complications and enjoying a healthier lifestyle.
• By addressing lifestyle factors and diligently managing potential triggers, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing ulcers, achieving a healthier and more comfortable digestive system. This proactive approach allowed them to enjoy a more confident and symptom-free life.
• By adhering to a proactive screening schedule, a patient was able to detect a benign growth early, minimizing potential complications and maintaining a healthy digestive system. This early detection allowed for a swift and effective treatment plan, providing peace of mind and promoting long-term well-being.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Gastrointestinal care with Dr. Frank Lukens:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist doctor who is expertly trained in the health of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. They are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions, and also perform preventive screenings like colonoscopies.

When should I get my first screening colonoscopy?

For average-risk individuals, routine screening colonoscopies are now recommended to begin at age 45. However, those with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Lukens will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

What is the difference between a colonoscopy and an upper endoscopy (EGD)?

A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) to screen for colon cancer, while an upper endoscopy (EGD) examines the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine to diagnose issues such as heartburn, ulcers, or difficulty swallowing.

What is 'fatty liver disease' and is it serious?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a very common condition often linked to metabolic health issues like obesity and diabetes. Fortunately, in its early stages, it can frequently be reversed with lifestyle changes. However, it's important to manage NAFLD to prevent potential progression to more serious liver damage, such as cirrhosis.

I have frequent heartburn. When should I be concerned?

While occasional heartburn is common, frequent or worsening symptoms (more than twice a week) warrant a consultation with Dr. Lukens. This could be a sign of GERD, which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious problems. Dr. Lukens can diagnose the cause and create an effective treatment plan.

What is H. pylori?

H. pylori is a common type of bacteria that can live in the stomach. In some people, it can cause gastritis and ulcers. It can be easily detected with breath or stool tests and effectively treated with a course of antibiotics.

What is Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, triggers damage to the lining of the small intestine. It's different from a gluten sensitivity, as it's a serious immune response. A proper diagnosis from a gastroenterologist is crucial before starting a gluten-free diet.

Are there non-colonoscopy options for colon cancer screening?

While at-home stool-based tests like Cologuard® or FIT are available, a colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colon cancer screening and prevention. If these tests show something abnormal, a colonoscopy is necessary to thoroughly evaluate and remove any polyps.

4500 San Pablo Rd S
Jacksonville FL 32224
Phone: (904) 953-2000

Dr. Frank Lukens, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1801871272

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Gastroenterology like Dr. Frank Lukens are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your gastroenterology about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.