The purpose of this article is to present the results of qualitative sociological surveys conducted prior to an epidemiological study, in order to demonstrate how they have helped public health professionals gain insight into and better understand the local situation. We focus in particular on the value of dialogue between physicians, epidemiologists, and social scientists within the framework of a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods. A sociohistorical approach first helped to better understand the context of Salindres, a small town in the Gard region that is home to a major industrial complex and where residents have expressed significant environmental and health concerns. Since political and economic factors do not immediately foster a calm debate on health issues related to industry, the qualitative approach using interviews allows for a better understanding of residents’ concerns, their ambivalence regarding risks and their efforts to distance themselves from them, as well as their expectations of the authorities. In the case study described here, this knowledge enabled us to adapt the quantitative approach by targeting specific health conditions of interest, as well as by adjusting the wording and objectives of the questionnaire. Our article concludes by highlighting the opportunities this offers for improving the relevance and effectiveness of public health interventions.