Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the 1980s. It was used in various building materials, such as insulation, roofing, ceiling tiles, and floor tiles, among others. Asbestos was popular due to its durability, fire-retardant properties, and affordability.

However, asbestos is hazardous to health, and prolonged exposure to it can cause serious illness, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to these diseases, and unfortunately, symptoms may not appear until several years later.