This article is a qualitative case study developed in a rural district of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The objective of this study is to understand the relationships established among inhabitants and the arena in which they live, specifically a locale endemic for schistosomiasis. The data was collected by means of interviews. The results show that individuals are aware of the problems caused by the infection, outlining the reality in which they survive. However, this is related to their imaginary reality that the water each personally uses is good; and it is in this arena they construct their respective processes of living within such precarious conditions. The life of these individuals is conducted according to their own conception of living. Although significant contradictions can be observed, they continuously search for improvements in their quality of life, the environment, and themselves.
Quality of life; Environment and public health; Right to health; Social conditions