In 2000 there were 1500 people in the United States that died from asbestos according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. This is up from just 77 people in 1968, and it is projected that the number will continue to increase as older workers now start experiencing the life-threatening effects of the long term exposure.
Asbestos has its uses, but these days it's best known as the top product liability issue in history. Asbestos-related illnesses, including asbestosis and Mesothelioma, can be absolutely devastating. If you believe you have any asbestos-related disease, you have a right to seek recompense for all the years you thought asbestos wasn't dangerous.