Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring silicate minerals that are commonly used in many industrial and construction applications. Because of its high tensile strength, heat resistance, and insulating qualities, asbestos was widely used in a variety of products, from firefighting gear to construction materials, throughout the 20th century.

However, asbestos is a known carcinogen, and breathing in airborne asbestos fibers can lead to a variety of serious health problems. The most serious of these is mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. Mesothelioma has no cure and can be fatal within just a few months of diagnosis.

Other health risks associated with asbestos exposure include lung cancer, asbestosis (a chronic lung disease), and pleural plaques (thickened, calcified areas on the lung lining). Because of the significant health risks associated with asbestos exposure, it's essential to have any asbestos-containing materials removed from your home or business as soon as possible.