Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the 1980s, particularly in concrete, insulation, and fireproofing materials. However, it was later discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause several serious diseases, including:

• Mesothelioma (a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and other organs)
• Asbestosis (a lung disease that can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain)
• Lung cancer
• Gastrointestinal cancer
• Ovarian cancer

Even a small amount of exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of these diseases, which is why it's crucial to identify and manage ACMs in buildings. Asbestos testing is the only way to determine whether your property contains this hazardous material, as it cannot be identified by the naked eye. As a responsible property owner or buyer, you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to get your property tested for asbestos.