["To be blind", blindness between an epidemiological and a sociological definition]

From an epidemiological point of view, blindness refers to a visual acuity inferior to 1/20 in each eye. Though such a definition is necessary for the installation of public health programs, it is insufficient as far as the elaboration of actions aimed at prevention and rehabilitation are concerned. Qualitative data reveal that a similar physical deficiency is lived in various ways according to precise social context. In addition to the physical handicap objectively defended and to its social interpretation, the same must also be analysed in the light of another important linking factor; the individuals' social status and specific task and obligations of various groups in a given population. Considered together, these factors provide a better understanding of the social condition of blind persons, their economic and matrimonial resulting in the conception of appropriate health programs.