Popcorn Lung and Vaping: A Dangerous Connection

Popcorn lung, officially called bronchiolitis obliterans, is a rare but serious lung disease that causes permanent damage to the small airways. “It makes breathing difficult and frequently results in symptoms like persistent coughing and shortness of breath.” The condition gained attention when factory workers exposed to diacetyl—a chemical used in butter flavoring—developed it. Now, experts are concerned about diacetyl’s presence in some vape liquids.

Chemical Threats in Vape Clouds
Vapes marketed with sweet flavors like cotton candy and mango may hide more than taste. Diacetyl becomes toxic when heated and inhaled. It’s banned in the EU and UK but still found in US vape products. “Other dangerous substances that have been connected to popcorn lung” include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, ammonia, and metal vapors. Even alternatives to diacetyl, like acetoin and 2,3-pentanedione, may cause similar damage.