From the Guidelines
Vaping poses a significant risk to lung health, and quitting is strongly recommended to prevent conditions like popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, which can cause irreversible lung damage. Popcorn lung is a serious lung condition that has been linked to vaping in some cases, as diacetyl and similar flavoring chemicals in e-cigarette liquids can cause inflammation and scarring in the small airways of the lungs, leading to symptoms including persistent cough, shortness of breath, and wheezing 1. The health risks of vaping products have not been adequately studied, and because nicotine is highly addictive and has many adverse effects, it is prudent to restrict usage of these products at least until their safety can be established 1.
Some key points to consider:
- Vaping exposes users to numerous potentially harmful chemicals, even if diacetyl has been removed from some e-liquid products
- Nicotine replacement therapies like patches, gum, or prescription medications such as Chantix (varenicline) or Zyban (bupropion) can help manage withdrawal symptoms
- Electronic nicotine delivery systems are not FDA-approved for tobacco dependence treatment and have not been shown to be safe or effective for tobacco dependence treatment 1
- If you're experiencing respiratory symptoms and have a history of vaping, consult a healthcare provider immediately for proper evaluation and treatment
The safest approach is to avoid all vaping products and seek help with quitting if needed, as the risks associated with vaping, including popcorn lung, outweigh any potential benefits 1.
From the Research
Popcorn Lung and Vaping
- Popcorn lung, also known as bronchiolitis obliterans, is a condition where the small airways in the lungs become inflamed and obstructed, leading to breathing difficulties.
- There is evidence to suggest that vaping may be associated with an increased risk of developing popcorn lung, although the exact relationship between the two is not fully understood 2.
- A study published in 2019 found that e-cigarettes may increase the risk of smoking initiation among youth, but may also increase smoking cessation among adults, potentially leading to a net gain in life-years saved 2.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Bronchiolitis Obliterans
- The diagnosis of bronchiolitis obliterans is typically based on a combination of clinical and radiological findings, as well as lung biopsy and histopathology 3, 4.
- Treatment of bronchiolitis obliterans often involves a multidisciplinary approach and may include medications such as fluticasone, azithromycin, and montelukast, as well as lung transplantation in severe cases 5, 4.
- Early detection and treatment of bronchiolitis obliterans are critical to improving outcomes, but access to diagnostic tools and effective treatments may be limited in some parts of the world 4.
Vaping and Lung Health
- Vaping has been associated with a range of lung health concerns, including popcorn lung, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory problems 2.
- The long-term effects of vaping on lung health are not yet fully understood and require further study 2.
- Public health messaging and policy should aim to reduce exposure to all nicotine and tobacco products, particularly among youth, while also acknowledging the potential benefits of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool for adults 2.