Asbestos is dangerous because when its fibers are disturbed and become airborne, they can be inhaled and lodged in the lungs. The body fights intrusive members by first trying to destroy them with blood cells. Because asbestos fibers have 10,000 times the tensile strength of steel, the body cannot destroy the fibers. Next, the body encapsulates those fibers to prevent further damage. Over time, this can lead to serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.