Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in construction and other industries until the 1980s. Asbestos was popular because of its heat resistance, durability, and strength. However, it was later discovered that asbestos caused serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Asbestos was subsequently banned in many countries, including the UK. Nevertheless, asbestos-containing materials are still present in many buildings in Porthallow, Cornwall, South West England, England, and other parts of the world.