Popcorn Lung: Causes, Symptoms, Cure & Lifespan Is Popcorn Lung Caused By Vaping? Lungs After Smoking: Understanding Popcorn Lung from Vaping Popcorn lung: What is it, and who is at risk? Harvard Health Doctors have linked vaping to a rare, incurable lung condition called obliterative bronchiolitis, often referred to as popcorn lung. The disease permanently scars and narrows the lungs' airways, causing lifelong breathing problems. Popcorn Lung: Causes, Symptoms, Cure & Lifespan