You Die From Does Vaping Cause Popcorn Lung? UK Vape Guide Can Geek Bars Cause Popcorn Lungs Symptoms Chemical Concerns: Which Vapes Contain Diacetyl? 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.