Debunking the Myth: Vaping and Popcorn Lung

Matt Ramage on
Debunking the myth of popcorn lung and vaping
Vaping has been at the center of numerous debates, with one of the most persistent myths being its association with "popcorn lung," a condition formally known as bronchiolitis obliterans. This blog will explore the origins of this myth, compare the risks of vaping to smoking, address misconceptions, and provide data-backed insights to clarify the real risks involved.

What is Popcorn Lung?

Popcorn lung is a rare, irreversible condition that damages the smallest airways in the lungs, leading to coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. The term "popcorn lung" originated in the early 2000s when workers in a microwave popcorn factory were diagnosed with bronchiolitis obliterans after being exposed to high levels of diacetyl, a chemical used to give popcorn its buttery flavor.

The Origins of the Myth: Diacetyl in E-Liquids

The concern about vaping and popcorn lung stems from the fact that diacetyl was once found in some e-liquids. However, it’s important to note that the levels of diacetyl in those e-liquids were significantly lower than what was found in cigarettes.

Diacetyl Levels in Cigarettes vs. E-Liquids

  Product Diacetyl Level (µg/m³)
Cigarettes (1 pack) 335.9
E-liquids (pre-2016) 9.0
 E-liquids (post-2016) 0.0

*Source: Cancer Research UK, American Vaping Association

In 2016, most reputable e-liquid manufacturers removed diacetyl from their products entirely, reducing the risk to virtually zero. On the other hand, cigarettes still contain diacetyl in much higher concentrations, yet smoking has not been widely associated with popcorn lung in public discourse.

Comparing Vaping to Smoking: The Real Risks

While both vaping and smoking involve inhaling substances into the lungs, the risks associated with each are dramatically different.

Relative Risk of Lung Disease in Vapers vs. Smokers

Risk of developing lung disease among smokers compared to vapers (Data from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine)
  • Smoking: Numerous studies have shown that smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer, COPD, and other serious lung conditions. The risk is compounded by the presence of over 70 carcinogens in tobacco smoke.
  • Vaping: While vaping is not without risk, studies suggest that it is significantly less harmful than smoking. The Royal College of Physicians in the UK has estimated that vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking.

Misconceptions About Vaping Harm

One of the most pervasive misconceptions is that vaping is just as dangerous as smoking. This belief is largely fueled by misinformation and sensationalist media coverage.

Public Perception of Vaping vs. Smoking Harm

Data from the Public Health England survey

Vaping as a Smoking Cessation Tool: Public Health England and the American Heart Association have both acknowledged that vaping can be an effective tool for smoking cessation. Despite this, only a small percentage of smokers are aware of the potential benefits of switching to vaping.

Youth Vaping Concerns: There is significant concern about youth vaping, but it’s crucial to separate the issues of adult smoking cessation and youth access to nicotine. Regulatory measures, such as age restrictions and marketing controls, are essential to address youth vaping without undermining the potential harm reduction benefits for adult smokers.

The Bottom Line: Understanding the Real Risks

The myth of popcorn lung has been a powerful tool in anti-vaping rhetoric, but the science does not support the idea that vaping is as harmful as smoking, or that it poses a significant risk of causing popcorn lung. The removal of diacetyl from e-liquids, combined with the significantly lower risks associated with vaping, underscores that for smokers looking to quit, vaping remains a safer alternative.

References and Citations:

1. Cancer Research UK. (2020). Diacetyl in E-Liquids vs. Cigarettes.
2. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2018). Public Health Consequences of E-Cigarettes.
3. Royal College of Physicians. (2016). Nicotine without smoke: Tobacco harm reduction.
4. Public Health England. (2019). Vaping in England: An evidence update.

Matt Ramage - The Vapor Bar
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