Vaping has become a popular trend among teenagers worldwide, often marketed as a safer alternative to cigarettes. However, the story of Nevada teenager Brianne Cullen proves otherwise. At just 14 years old, Brianne began secretly vaping to cope with anxiety during school. Despite being physically active and a member of her school’s cheerleading team, her family was shocked when they received a call from her at 17, saying she couldn’t breathe.
The Nevada teenager was quickly rushed to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly known as popcorn lung. While the name may sound harmless, popcorn lung is a serious and dangerous condition that causes persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, and, in severe cases, irreversible damage to lung function. Sadly, once diagnosed, the damage to the lungs cannot be reversed.
The term “popcorn lung” comes from workers in microwave popcorn factories. Back then, they were often exposed to diacetyl, a chemical used to create a buttery flavor. This chemical vapor caused severe lung damage. Diacetyl has also been found in some e-cigarette flavorings, raising increasing concerns about the health risks of vaping.
Dangerous Habit
Thankfully for Cullen, her condition is considered manageable since the disease was discovered early. However, popcorn lung can lead to further complications down the line, including an increased risk of cancer. Now, the Nevada teenager must carry an inhaler to help with her breathing.
Cullen’s mother, Christine Martin, was shocked by the news. She never suspected her daughter would secretly vape behind her back. It saddened her that it took such a severe diagnosis for Cullen to stop vaping. Martin hopes that by sharing her daughter’s experience, other parents will become more aware of the dangers of vaping and take steps to prevent their children from developing the same harmful habit.
The news about Cullen quickly spread across the internet, but many were unfamiliar with what popcorn lung actually is. Those who were aware took the opportunity to warn others about the dangers of vaping. “Guys, for the sake of your lives, stop vaping 😭,” one TikTok user commented.
Others expressed their concern over the growing trend of young people picking up vaping simply because their peers were doing it. Unlike cigarettes, the risks of vaping are not as widely known, which has led many teenagers to try it. “This is such an important warning about the dangers of vaping, especially for young people. It’s heartbreaking to see how something meant to cope with anxiety can lead to a lifelong health issue,” another user shared.
