“Popcorn lung,” the nickname for bronchiolitis obliterans, is a rare but serious lung disease. It causes scarring and narrowing of the smallest air passages in the lungs, making it harder and harder to breathe. Sadly, once this damage happens, it cannot be reversed.
The condition first made headlines in the early 2000s when microwave popcorn factory workers developed severe lung problems after breathing in diacetyl, a buttery flavoring chemical used in popcorn production.
How Is It Connected to Vaping?
Diacetyl isn’t limited to popcorn factories. It’s also found in certain vape flavorings, especially sweet or buttery ones. When heated and inhaled as vapor, diacetyl becomes a toxic chemical that can scar the lungs.
Dr. Donal O’Shea, a chemistry professor at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, explains that even though diacetyl is banned in e-cigarettes in some regions like the UK and EU, it still appears in:
- Illegal or unregulated vape products
- Products sold in countries where regulations are weaker
This makes the risk especially high for young people who may unknowingly use vapes containing harmful chemicals.
Why Are Health Experts Concerned?
Researchers still don’t fully understand the long-term effects of vaping. But the popularity of vaping continues to rise—especially among teens and young adults.
- In the UK, more adults now vape than smoke traditional cigarettes.
- In the U.S., e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among teens.
- Nearly 44% of students who have ever tried e-cigs say they still use them.
Because flavored vapes are especially appealing to youth, they also carry the higher risk of containing harmful additives like diacetyl.
Is Popcorn Lung Always Caused by Vaping?
No. Popcorn lung can also develop from:
- Certain viral or bacterial infections
- Exposure to harmful chemicals and pollutants
- Inhaled toxins in workplaces
- Severe lung irritation
But the American Lung Association warns that flavored e-cigs may contribute to the risk.
Symptoms of Popcorn Lung
Symptoms typically appear 2 weeks to 2 months after exposure to harmful chemicals or following a lung infection.
Primary Symptoms
- Dry, persistent cough
- Shortness of breath, especially during exercise
Other Possible Symptoms
- Wheezing (even without asthma)
- Constant fatigue
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Skin rash
Some people may not have symptoms at first, which makes early damage harder to detect.
Is There a Cure?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for popcorn lung. Once lung tissue is scarred, it cannot heal. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, using:
- Bronchodilators
- Steroids
- Oxygen therapy
- Lung transplants in severe cases
This is why prevention is crucial.
A Final Word
Popcorn lung is rare—but it’s real, serious, and irreversible. And with more young people vaping, especially using flavored or illicit products, health experts say awareness is more important than ever.
If you or someone you love uses vapes, especially flavored ones, knowing the risks can help prevent long-term harm.
Feel free to share this article to help others stay informed and safe.
