Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals that were commonly used in building materials in the past. It was an inexpensive and versatile material that was used for insulation, flooring, roofing, and fireproofing. However, it was later discovered that asbestos materials are highly toxic and pose a significant health risk to humans.

Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily be inhaled. Once inhaled, they accumulate in the lungs and other parts of the body, leading to severe health conditions. These conditions include lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, all of which have been linked to exposure to asbestos materials.