This review will briefly address the mechanisms by which asbestos fibers cause pathology. Characteristic physical and chemical features of asbestos are considered important in pathogenesis and are briefly discussed in this overview. Detailed information on many of these important physical, chemical and bio-durability properties are available in many reviews cited. This overview on the mechanisms by which asbestos fibers cause pathology is presented as background information which may be applicable for the early identification of potential emerging hazards resulting from the introduction of new technologies in the fiber industry.