Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the late 20th century because of its heat and fire-resistant properties. However, once the harmful effects of asbestos exposure were discovered, the use of this hazardous material was banned in many countries.

Asbestos fibers are tiny and can easily be inhaled into the lungs, causing severe damage over time. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they get trapped in the lining of the lungs and can cause scarring and inflammation. This can eventually lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, which is a severe respiratory disease.

The most significant risk of asbestos exposure is the long latency period, which can be up to 40 years. This means that you may not develop any symptoms of asbestos-related diseases until several years after you have been exposed to the material.

Therefore, if you are living or working in a building that was built before the 1990s, it is essential to consider the possibility of asbestos-containing materials and to seek professional asbestos removal services to ensure your safety.