Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction of buildings, especially those built between the 1950s to 1980s. It can be found in various materials like insulation, cement sheets, floor tiles, pipe lagging, and even in textiles and automotive parts.

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release tiny fibers into the air that can easily be inhaled. These fibers can accumulate in the lungs and cause damage to the tissue, eventually leading to asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The most common symptoms of asbestos-related diseases are shortness of breath, persistent coughing, chest pain, and fatigue.

It is important to note that asbestos-related diseases have a latency period, which means that symptoms may not appear until years or even decades after the initial exposure. This is why early detection and proper asbestos removal are crucial in preventing long-term health risks.