Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s until the 1990s. Its heat-resistant properties and durability made it popular for use in a variety of building materials, including insulation, roofing, and flooring. However, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure were not fully understood until decades later.

Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases often take years, even decades, to develop, making early detection and removal of asbestos-containing materials crucial.