About this episode
Dr. Joseph Allen is an associate professor at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and director of the Healthy Buildings Program. He is a leading expert on how indoor environments impact human health and co-authored the book Healthy Buildings. His research has shaped public health policy and influenced corporate and government strategies around building design, air quality, and COVID-19 mitigation. Through his work, Dr. Allen advocates for buildings to be viewed as powerful tools for protecting and promoting health.In our conversation we discuss:(00:00) – What is the reason for myopia rise?(01:59) – How does nearsightedness change eye anatomy?(03:36) – Why is urban living linked to myopia?(05:15)– What treatments or habits can slow myopia?(06:10) – Are East Asians more prone to eye disease?(07:51) – How much is genetics vs. lifestyle in myopia?(10:01) – Does sunlight help prevent myopia in children?(11:16) – What is red light therapy for the eyes?(14:51) – Does screen time worsen vision more than books?(17:02) – How do special lenses reduce eye strain?(19:25) – Can glasses help prevent myopia before onset?(20:56) – Does poor lighting make eyesight worse?(22:37) – What’s the real risk of blue light?(26:24) – Do blue light glasses reduce eye fatigue?(28:47) – What home changes help with screen-related strain?(31:15) – How are blinking and posture tied to eye health?(32:00) – What is the Bates method and why is it flawed?(41:18) – What top habits protect and preserve vision?(45:27) – Are carrots truly a vision superfood?(50:39) – Why is fish better than omega-3 supplements?(57:38) – Do atropine drops really slow myopia in kids?(1:07:40) – Who is a good candidate for LASIK or SMILE?(1:10:56) – What to do before a LASIK consultation?(1:13:41) – Does astigmatism affect LASIK candidacy?(1:15:12) – What causes dark circles and eye bags?(1:22:29) – What’s the future of eye care with AI?Learn more about Dr. AllenInstagram : @DoctorEyeHealth Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/doctoreyehealthWebsite: https://doctoreyehealth.com/Watch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankimConnect on IG: https://instagram.com/heyseankim