Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the late 1990s. It is highly hazardous to human health and exposure to it has been proven to cause severe respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne, making inhalation a significant risk.

While asbestos is no longer used in modern construction, many older buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials. It's crucial to identify these materials and have them removed safely to protect yourself and others from the dangers of exposure.