Q. What is the primary chemical linked to popcorn lung injury associated with vaping?
Answer: Diacetyl
Notes: Popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, is primarily caused by diacetyl, a chemical used for flavoring. Originally linked to workers in popcorn factories, it has since been identified in some e-liquids. Diacetyl can cause irreversible lung damage, leading to symptoms like coughing and wheezing. Awareness of this risk has prompted some manufacturers to eliminate diacetyl from their products, highlighting the importance of ingredient transparency in vaping.