Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in various industries such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and even consumer products like insulation, vinyl flooring, and popcorn ceilings. Asbestos fibers are strong, flexible, and heat-resistant, making them ideal for insulation, fireproofing, and soundproofing.

However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) get damaged, disturbed, or deteriorated, they can release microscopic fibers into the air. These fibers can be inhaled and lodged in the lungs, where they can cause various health problems. Asbestos-related diseases can develop years, even decades, after exposure, and there's no known cure for them.

Some of the health effects of asbestos exposure include:

• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
• Lung cancer: A type of cancer that starts in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body.
• Asbestosis: A chronic lung condition that causes scarring and inflammation, making it difficult to breathe.
• Pleural thickening: A non-cancerous condition that involves scarring and thickening of the lining of the lungs, causing chest pain and breathing difficulties.