Young people have been cautioned about “popcorn lung,” a severe and permanent respiratory disease also known as bronchiolitis obliterans.

Popcorn lung is often associated with vaping and e-cigarettes due to the presence of harmful compounds like diacetyl. This chemical is commonly used to create flavorings but can cause significant damage when inhaled.

Donal O’Shea, a chemistry professor at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, explained in an article for The Conversation that the term “popcorn lung” originated in 2000, when several workers at a microwave popcorn factory developed lung problems from exposure to diacetyl.

Similar to the popcorn factory scenario, many flavored vaping products contain diacetyl, which transforms into a toxic inhalant when aerosolized.

“It causes inflammation and scarring in the bronchioles—the smallest airways in the lungs—making it increasingly difficult for air to move through,” O’Shea said.

He emphasized that there is no cure for popcorn lung. Once the lungs are damaged, treatment focuses solely on symptom management.

“Management can include bronchodilators, steroids, and in extreme cases, lung transplantation. This is why prevention—not treatment—is the most effective and essential defence.”

What Causes Popcorn Lung?

Workers at popcorn factories suffered permanent and debilitating lung damage due to inhaling diacetyl over extended periods. While diacetyl is now banned in e-cigarettes across the UK and EU, it can still be found in some illicit products. Additionally, the substance remains present in vaping products in the United States and other regions.

According to Cancer Research UK, other factors may also contribute to popcorn lung. Lung infections, chronic illnesses affecting the respiratory system, or exposure to environmental pollutants can all play a role in damaging the small airways.

Is There a Link Between Popcorn Lung and Vaping?

A key concern among health experts is that research into vaping and its potential long-term effects remains limited. Meanwhile, the popularity of vaping continues to rise, particularly among young people.

In the UK, the Office for National Statistics reports that e-cigarettes and vapes are now used by more adults over the age of 16 than traditional cigarettes. Daily use is most common among people aged 25 to 49.

In the United States, CDC data from the previous year showed that e-cigarettes were the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students. Among those who had ever tried e-cigarettes, 43.6 percent reported current use.

While the evidence directly linking vaping to popcorn lung is still limited, organizations such as the American Lung Association have described the condition as “a dangerous risk associated with flavored e-cigarettes,” particularly those containing diacetyl.

Symptoms of Popcorn Lung

Popcorn lung typically presents with two primary symptoms, which usually develop between two weeks and two months after exposure to harmful chemicals or infections. According to WebMD, these main symptoms are:

• A persistent dry cough

• Shortness of breath

Symptoms often worsen during physical activity or strenuous work. Additional warning signs can include wheezing, even in the absence of a cold or asthma, and unexplained fatigue.

The Cleveland Clinic notes that some individuals may also experience fever, night sweats, or skin rashes. However, in some cases, early stages of popcorn lung may show no noticeable symptoms at all, making early detection difficult.

Why Awareness Is Crucial

Given the irreversible nature of popcorn lung, raising awareness about its causes and symptoms is vital. Health experts stress that avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals—especially through vaping—is the most effective way to protect lung health.

Parents, educators, and healthcare providers are encouraged to inform young people about the potential risks of flavored e-cigarettes and to promote safer alternatives for those seeking to quit smoking or vaping.

The growing trend of vaping among teenagers and young adults highlights the urgent need for stronger regulations and public education campaigns, ensuring that fewer people suffer from this preventable yet devastating illness.