Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was heavily used in construction materials until the late 20th century. It was valued for its heat resistance, durability, and affordability. Asbestos can be found in a variety of building materials, such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, cement, and roofing shingles.

However, asbestos is also highly toxic when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. These fibers can lodge in the lungs and cause scarring, inflammation, and other damage over time. Asbestos-related diseases may take years or even decades to appear, but they are often fatal.