The rise of vaping and e-cigarettes has been met with some controversy, with many myths claiming that vaping is dangerous and can even lead to lung disease. In particular, there has been much discussion of the supposed “popcorn lung”, a phrase referencing a rare condition called bronchiolitis obliterans that is attributed to the inhalation of flavoring chemicals used in some e-cigarettes. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the truth behind this myth and why you don’t need to worry about popcorn lung from vaping.
What is Popcorn Lung?
Popcorn lung, also known as bronchiolitis obliterans, is a rare condition where the bronchioles (the smallest airways in the lungs) become scarred and permanently obstructed. This leads to severe breathing problems, including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and even lung failure. The condition is rare, and it has been linked to the inhalation of certain chemicals used in the flavoring of some e-cigarettes.
The Truth about Popcorn Lung
The truth is that there is no scientific evidence to suggest that vaping can cause popcorn lung. The chemicals that are said to be linked to the condition are diacetyl and acetyl propionyl, which were once used in the flavoring of some e-cigarettes. However, these chemicals have been banned by most e-cigarette manufacturers and are no longer used in any products. Furthermore, even when the chemicals were in use, the amount found in e-cigarettes was far lower than that which was linked to popcorn lung in industrial settings.
Conclusion
Overall, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that vaping can cause popcorn lung. The chemicals that were once linked to the condition are no longer used in e-cigarette products, and even when they were in use, the amount found in e-cigarettes was far lower than that which was linked to popcorn lung in industrial settings. Therefore, it’s safe to say that you don’t need to worry about popcorn lung from vaping.
