Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry until the 1980s. It was used in a variety of building materials, including insulation, roofing, floor tiles, and cement. Asbestos was popular due to its ability to resist fire and heat, and its durability. However, asbestos has been found to be extremely hazardous to human health when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. These fibers can cause lung diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs.