You Won’t Guess How Long It Takes for Popcorn Lung to Develop

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 19:03:37 +0000

How Long Does It Take for Popcorn Lung to Develop? The Surprising Truth Popcorn lung—officially known as bronchiolitis obliterans—has captured public attention after being linked to factory workers exposed to diacetyl, a butter-flavored chemical used in microwave popcorn. But one question often comes up: How long does it actually take for popcorn lung to develop after exposure? The timeline varies based on multiple factors, but understanding these can help raise awareness and encourage early prevention. --- ### What Is Popcorn Lung?