Final answer:
Asbestos was used in the past in a variety of construction materials but was not employed as a terminal insulation material. Its fibers can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis when airborne and inhaled, leading to its regulation and banning in many areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many construction workers in the early and middle 20th century were at risk for lung cancer because asbestos was a key chemical in a range of applications except for use as a terminal insulation material, among others. Asbestos was not used as a terminal insulation material, but was widely used in other materials due to its properties such as fiber strength and heat resistance. Asbestos has been used in construction material, brake linings, and filters, and when mixed with cement, it reinforced the mechanical strength of concrete. However, exposure to asbestos fibers, particularly when disturbed and airborne, is a major health hazard, leading to diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Despite its advantageous properties, the use of asbestos is heavily regulated today due to the health risks it poses. The handling and removal of existing asbestos-containing materials must be done with extreme caution to prevent the release of fibers into the air, and its use is banned in many countries. Awareness and proper safety measures are vital for preventing health issues related to asbestos.