Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials until the 1980s. Because of its strength, durability, fire resistance, and insulating properties, asbestos was used in a range of building materials such as cement, insulation, and ceiling tiles. However, asbestos is now known to be a dangerous material, causing serious health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. The danger lies in the asbestos fibers, which can become airborne when the material is disturbed, and can be inhaled by anyone in the vicinity. This is why it is crucial to remove asbestos from any building material that contains it, especially in older buildings.