Asbestos

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral which had been frequently used in industries before researchers discovered its toxicity. After numerous studies, scientists have discovered that the (microscopic) fibers of asbestos, once penetrate the lungs, can form pulmonary lesions causing serious breathing problems and death; this medical condition is called asbestosis.   

Asbestosis is a chronic nonmalignant lung disease of the pneumoconiosis family. The disease tends to progress silently up to 30 years after exposure to asbestos before producing symptoms. During its silent phase, the fiber continue to damage the lungs causing them to inflamed, which turns slowly in pulmonary fibrosis (thickening or scarring of the lung tissue).