Dr. Mark Avila, MD

Dr. Mark Avila, MD is a Gastroenterology specialist dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive Gastrointestinal care at his clinic in Miami, 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 currently welcoming new patients to begin their proactive health journey. Call (305) 273-6266 to schedule.

Dr. Avila, Board Certified in Gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine, brings over 35 years of dedicated experience in Gastrointestinal care to his patients and their families. Earning his medical degree from Medical College of Wisconsin in 1985, he completed his training with an internship at Tucson Medical Center and the University of Arizona, followed by fellowship training at the University of Florida College of Medicine and University of Miami Hospitals and Clinics, specializing in Gastroenterology and Hepatology. He is also Board Certified in Gastroenterology and has served on the Florida Board of Medicine. He currently holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Miami and is active in clinical trials involving therapy for Hepatitis C and Gastroenterological diseases. He offers consultations in Spanish, and is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality medical care while delivering compassionate and personal attention to each patient.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Mark Avila 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. Mark Avila 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. Mark Avila 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:

• Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an esophageal condition where immune cells cause inflammation; proactive monitoring and prompt treatment are vital to prevent long-term damage and difficulties with swallowing.
• Alcoholic Cirrhosis: Regular liver function tests and discussions with your healthcare provider are critical steps in preventing alcoholic cirrhosis and managing its progression if diagnosed.
• Alcoholic Hepatitis: Managing your alcohol consumption is crucial in preventing alcoholic hepatitis, a condition that can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure if left untreated.
• Intestinal Diverticulosis: Protecting your digestive health starts with understanding diverticulosis: these small pouches in your intestines may not cause issues, but a fiber-rich diet and regular checkups can prevent problems later.
• Colorectal Polyp: Colorectal polyps, even the small ones, highlight the importance of proactive digestive health. Regular check-ups can help find and remove these growths before they turn cancerous.
• Chronic Cholecystitis: Managing your weight and diet can help prevent chronic cholecystitis, a persistent gallbladder inflammation that, if left untreated, may lead to severe health problems.
• Proctoptosis: Understanding the risk factors for proctoptosis, such as chronic coughing or straining during bowel movements, enables you to make lifestyle changes that can significantly reduce your chance of developing this condition.
• Duodenal Cancer: Duodenal cancer, a rare cancer affecting the small intestine, is best prevented through regular health screenings and addressing risk factors like smoking and certain genetic conditions to catch it early.
• Megacolon: Preventing complications from megacolon involves understanding your risk factors and seeking medical attention if you experience persistent constipation or abdominal discomfort, enabling early intervention and better health outcomes.
• Indigestion: Managing indigestion effectively prevents discomfort and potential complications such as ulcers or heartburn, promoting the long-term health of your entire digestive system.
• Intestinal Diverticulitis: Early detection of intestinal diverticulitis symptoms, like abdominal pain and fever, is crucial for preventing serious complications and getting prompt treatment that can prevent future flare-ups.
• Esophageal Ulcer: An esophageal ulcer is a sore on the lining of your esophagus that can be prevented by managing risk factors like acid reflux and avoiding harmful substances.

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. Mark Avila offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Wireless pH Testing: This convenient test involves a small sensor that accurately monitors your esophageal pH over time, enabling your doctor to accurately diagnose and effectively manage acid reflux or other esophageal conditions.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Taking charge of your colon health starts with a sigmoidoscopy, a simple test that screens for precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer, often preventing these conditions from developing.
• pH Probe: Taking a proactive step towards digestive health, a pH probe test helps identify the cause of your heartburn and other reflux symptoms, allowing for early intervention.
• Manometry: For a comprehensive assessment of your digestive health, consider manometry. This test helps detect motility disorders, ensuring that any issues affecting your ability to swallow, digest food, or move waste are identified and treated promptly, preventing potentially severe consequences.
• Screening Colonoscopy: A screening colonoscopy is a proactive step to detect precancerous polyps and early-stage colon cancer, allowing for timely intervention and preventing serious health problems.
• Hemorrhoidectomy or Excision of Anal Tags: Hemorrhoidectomy or excision of anal tags is a surgical procedure to remove hemorrhoids or skin tags around the anus, improving comfort and preventing further complications.
• Liver Function Test: A liver function test is a simple blood test that helps proactively assess the health of your liver and detect potential problems early, allowing for timely intervention.
• 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.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Invest in your long-term well-being: a colorectal cancer screening is a simple yet powerful step in preventing and catching this disease early.
• Colonoscopy: Taking charge of your gut health starts with a colonoscopy: it's a vital screening test that detects abnormalities in your large intestine early, often before symptoms appear.
• Rigid Proctosigmoidoscopy: For early detection of colorectal cancer and other lower intestinal conditions, a rigid proctosigmoidoscopy is a screening tool that allows for a thorough examination of your rectum and a portion of your colon.
• Duodenal Polypectomy: As part of your commitment to digestive health, duodenal polypectomy allows for the removal of polyps in your duodenum, potentially preventing the development of more serious conditions.

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. Mark Avila 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 proactively managing their eosinophilic esophagitis through regular check-ups and dietary modifications, a patient avoided long-term complications and maintained a healthy quality of life.
• By diligently following a personalized plan for liver health, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis, gaining peace of mind and a proactive approach to their well-being.
• By understanding their alcohol intake and making gradual lifestyle changes, a patient significantly reduced their risk of developing alcoholic hepatitis, gaining peace of mind and a healthier future.

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. Mark Avila:

What is a Gastroenterologist?

Dr. Avila and our gastroenterology team are specialists in the health of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. We are experts in diagnosing and treating digestive conditions and in performing 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, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Dr. Avila will determine the best, personalized screening schedule for you.

What is a capsule endoscopy?

Capsule endoscopy is a modern, non-invasive way to examine the small intestine, which is difficult to reach with traditional scopes. A small, pill-sized camera is swallowed, taking thousands of pictures as it travels through your digestive tract.

What are gallstones?

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Many people have them without any problems. They only become a concern if they cause blockages, leading to pain, and Dr. Mark Avila can help diagnose this issue.

How do you manage chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis?

We partner with patients to achieve and maintain remission of chronic conditions like Crohn's and ulcerative colitis. Advanced therapies, combined with personalized nutritional guidance and regular monitoring, help control inflammation and prevent flare-ups, ultimately improving quality of life.

Are there non-colonoscopy options for colon cancer screening?

Yes, there are non-colonoscopy options, such as at-home stool-based tests. However, a positive result on these tests still requires a colonoscopy for further evaluation and potential removal of polyps. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for both detecting and preventing colon cancer.

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 evaluate issues like heartburn, ulcers, or difficulty swallowing.

What are some common signs of liver problems I should watch for?

Some common signs of liver problems include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), persistent fatigue, abdominal swelling, and unexplained dark urine. If you experience any of these symptoms, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Avila for a thorough evaluation.

7887 N Kendall Dr Ste 101
Miami FL 33156
Phone: (305) 273-6266

Dr. Mark Avila, 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): 1598742058

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. Mark Avila 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.