Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in construction materials due to its durability and heat-resistant properties. However, it was discovered that asbestos can pose serious health risks if inhaled, as it can cause lung diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos was therefore banned in the UK in 1999, but it can still be found in many older buildings, especially those built before the 1980s.