In 70-80% of cases of those who suffer from mesothelioma, exposure to some form of asbestos is a factor.
Asbestos is made up of tiny fibers that are very strong but flexible enough to be woven. Asbestos is also very resistant to high heat and as such was used in many types of insulation and building materials. When damaged or bent, asbestos materials release some of the tiny fibers into the air. When these fibers enter the lungs they can cause inflammation, fibrosis, and cancer.