Asbestos was formerly considered a prime component for commercial products due to its strength, elasticity, low electrical conductivity, and resistance to both heat and chemicals. However, recent scientific studies have thrust asbestos into a negative light and many governmental restrictions have been placed on its use. High death rates from lung diseases and cancers of the chest and abdomen have been recorded among asbestos workers who did not wear protective gear. Asbestos is also a key suspect in the death of a large number of miners in North America. Yet, the highest lung cancer rates in the miners occurred in the group who were also smokers, making results analysis difficult and scientific agreement unlikely.