Many TV commercials advertise legal representation for victims of lung disease, such as mesothelioma, related to asbestos. Asbestos is a set of fibrous, naturally occuring minerals which gained popularity as a building material in the early 19th century. Asbestos sound-proofed rooms and created insulation. It also resisted fire. Evidence on the dangers of asbestos was presented as early as the 1920's, but federal limits to exposure were not passed until 1972. Though asbestos has been controlled since then, many people were exposed, especially those who worked in construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing. Now, approximately 10,000 people pass away every year due to an asbestos-related illness. When a person is diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related lung disease, it is best to research legal options.