Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials from the 1950s until the early 2000s. It was commonly added to products such as cement, insulation, floor tiles, and roofing materials because of its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it has now been identified as a major health hazard, and its use has been banned in many countries worldwide. When asbestos materials are disturbed, they release tiny fibers into the air which, when breathed in, can cause long-term health problems such as cancer and lung disease.