Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was once commonly used in building materials and industrial products. It was considered a versatile and useful material because of its fire resistance, insulation properties, and durability. However, it has since become clear that asbestos is extremely hazardous to human health.

Exposure to asbestos can lead to serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These diseases do not appear immediately after exposure, but rather develop over a period of time.

It's important to note that many buildings constructed before 2000 may contain asbestos, which means that anyone involved in construction, renovation, or demolition work could be at risk if proper safety measures are not taken.