"Popcorn lung" claims teenager after 3 years of vaping

Medical warnings about electronic cigarettes are increasing, as many believe they are a safe alternative to traditional smoking, while evidence shows their health risks.

Recently, an American teenager developed a rare condition called "popcorn lung" after secretly smoking e-cigarettes for three years.

This rare disease, scientifically known as "bronchiolitis obliterans," causes permanent lung damage, leading to persistent coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

The term "popcorn lung" originated from workers in popcorn factories who inhaled a chemical called "diacetyl," used to flavor popcorn.

This chemical becomes toxic when inhaled, causing inflammation in the airways, obstructing airflow, and causing permanent lung damage.

Although "diacetyl" is the main cause of this disease, electronic cigarettes also contain similar chemicals that may be responsible for this condition.

While this disease is incurable, doctors emphasize that prevention is the best solution, as there is no effective treatment other than symptom management.

E-cigarette use is increasing among teenagers and young people due to attractive advertisements for flavored products containing nicotine and other chemicals. While some of these substances are safe for consumption in food, inhaling them in e-cigarettes poses a significant health risk.