First, it's important to understand what asbestos is and why it can be so dangerous. Asbestos is a group of minerals that naturally occur as fibers in rock and soil. These fibers are extremely strong, heat-resistant, and durable, making them ideal for use in a range of industrial and building materials.

However, when asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can become airborne and inhaled. Over time, this exposure can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. In fact, asbestos exposure is responsible for thousands of deaths each year, and the material is now banned in many countries worldwide.