Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry for insulation, fireproofing, and other applications. While asbestos can be useful for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, its use in building materials has come at a significant cost to human health. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, microscopic asbestos fibers are released into the air. These fibers can be inhaled and cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.