Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly type of cancer that primarily affects the lungs' pleura and has a very long latency. If mesothelioma is to develop, on average, it will take over 20 years following asbestos exposure for it to be diagnosed. Mesothelioma is probably the most well-known health hazard related to asbestos exposure. It's estimated that occupational asbestos exposure is associated with 80% of mesothelioma cases. In the United States, asbestos exposure is estimated to be responsible for ~40,000 deaths each year. In addition to mesothelioma, asbestos exposure is associated with increased risk for asbestosis, lung cancer, laryngeal cancer, and ovarian cancer. Firefighters have been found to be at increased risk of developing mesothelioma. Asbestos exposure is a possible cause for firefighter's increased risk of mesothelioma.

Asbestos is made up of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are strong, fire-resistant, and good heat insulators. In older homes, asbestos may be found in home insulation, insulation around piping, asbestos-containing floor tiles, asbestos-containing house roofing, siding, and textured paint and wall patching compounds.

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