Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in the construction, automotive, and textile industries for their excellent heat resistance, tensile strength, and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos is a significant risk factor for cancer and other respiratory diseases when the tiny fibers are inhaled.

Asbestos exposure can lead to severe health conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, among others. The health effects of asbestos exposure may take years or even decades to manifest, and there's no known cure for such ailments.

As a result, many countries around the world, including the UK, have banned the use of asbestos in the construction of buildings, and have enforced regulations to control the disposal of asbestos waste.