Popcorn lung: Vaping chemical Diacetyl linked to irreversible lung damage
E-cigarette users face 'highest risk' of developing Popcorn Lung, campaign warns.
E-cigarette users are reported to be at the highest risk of developing the lung condition known as Popcorn Lung. The disease, medically termed bronchiolitis obliterans, is caused by inhaling a chemical used to flavour popcorn.
The chemical, Diacetyl, which enhances popcorn flavour, is present in certain e-cigarette liquids.
"The airways become inflamed, then narrow, or close completely. This means patients cannot breathe and, in severe cases, may require intensive care. In some cases, even an oxygen mask is not sufficient," the campaign stated, citing its expert, Doctor Bro.
Diacetyl is officially banned in the European Union (EU). However, ongoing cases of Popcorn Lung linked to e-cigarette use suggest other components within these products could also be posing a serious risk to lung health, according to physicians.
"The condition does not heal. The change is irreversible," Doctor Bro stated, noting the effect is permanent. "The only definitive solution is a lung transplant. We urge people to give up tobacco and nicotine use."
The 'Doctor Bro' video series, produced by the Center for Health Policies and Analyses (Centrul PAS), is aimed at informing teenagers and a wider audience about the effects of tobacco and nicotine products.
The 'Doctor Bro' character is a teacher who explains what the tobacco industry tries to hide: what addiction is and how it develops; how smoking and nicotine affect the brain, lungs, and heart; and what dangers new forms of consumption pose. The series has ten episodes.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
