Asbestos, once touted as the miracle mineral, has a surprisingly long history with humanity, dating back at least 4,000 years. It was used in various forms, from insulation to clothing, but its dangers were initially overlooked. As the industrial age progressed, asbestos became a staple in construction, but its health risks became increasingly apparent, leading to a ban on its use in the US and other countries. Today, an estimated quarter million people die each year from complications due to asbestos exposure, mostly from cancers like mesothelioma.
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