Asbestos is a naturally-occurring material that used to be commonly used in product manufacturing due to its fireproof characteristics. Use of asbestos was halted in the late 20th century after research into the material showed that inhalation of asbestos particles can cause mesothelioma – a form of lung cancer that is difficult to treat and often deadly. Prior to this discovery, asbestos was commonly used in products such as brake pads, wall insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, and roofing materials, among others.