Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a variety of building materials, such as insulation, roofing, and flooring. While asbestos was once widely used for these purposes due to its excellent fire resistance and durability, it is now known to be highly hazardous to human health. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, the fibers can become airborne and be inhaled, leading to serious health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.