Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction materials, such as insulation, floor tiles, roofing sheets, and cement. Asbestos fibers are strong, durable, and resistant to heat and fire, which made them popular in the construction industry.

However, asbestos is also highly toxic and can cause serious health problems when inhaled. The fibers are so small that they can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause damage over time. Asbestos exposure has been linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other respiratory diseases.