Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction materials from the 1950s to the 1980s. Asbestos was prized for its heat-resistant, fire-resistant and insulating properties, and was used in products such as pipes, insulation, roofing, flooring, and even clothing. However, exposure to asbestos can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. As a result, the use of asbestos has been banned in many countries, including the UK.