An expert has spoken out about why, given the ‘permanent’ impacts of vaping, ‘prevention’ rather than ‘therapy’ is the only way ahead.

Earlier this year, it was discovered that a 17-year-old had been diagnosed with the irreversible illness bronchiolitis obliterans, sometimes known as ‘popcorn lung,’ following three years of vaping.

Donal O’Shea, a professor of chemistry at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, has spoken out about the hazards of ‘popcorn lung’ and why the phrase dates back to the early days of vaping.

The specialist also highlighted why the flavoring chemical used in vapes may cause such long-term harm to the body.

In an article for The Conversation, Professor O’Shea said that the phrase ‘popcorn lung’ originated when many workers experienced lung difficulties while working at a microwave popcorn facility that employed a chemical called diacetyl.

Flavored vapes, like popcorn, contain diacetyl, which, when aerosolized, produces a ‘toxic inhalant.’

Dr. O’Shea clarifies, “It causes inflammation and scarring in the bronchioles (the smallest branches of the lungs), making it increasingly difficult for air to move through.”

He cautions, “There is no cure for popcorn lung.” Once the lungs have been injured, the only therapeutic options are to manage the symptoms.

“This may include bronchodilators, steroids, and, in severe circumstances, lung transplants. For this reason, prevention, not therapy, is the greatest and only defense.”

And diacetyl is not the only ingredient in vapes that might have this impact.

Inhaling diacetyl causes ‘permanent’ and ‘frequently crippling lung damage.’

Diacetyl is currently legally prohibited in e-cigarettes in the EU and the UK; however, this does not mean it does not wind up in illicit goods.

It is also present in items in the United States and other countries.

However, additional hazardous substances can “trigger” popcorn lung.

Notes Professor O’Shea: “Including volatile carbonyls like formaldehyde and acetaldehyde—both of which have also been detected in e-cigarette vapors.”

He says that scientists believe there are “over 180 different flavoring agents used in e-cigarette products today” that, “when heated,” break down into “new compounds” that have not all been “tested for inhalation safety.”

“Because vapers’ lungs are exposed to so many chemicals, it is impossible to directly establish that diacetyl causes the illness in any given case. But this does not diminish the known hazards of breathing it,” he adds. “Even if diacetyl isn’t the sole culprit, cumulative exposure to multiple chemicals and their byproducts could increase the risk of popcorn lung and other respiratory conditions.”

As a result, he feels that ‘prevention,’ rather than ‘treatment,’ is the only way ahead with vaping.