BACKGROUND:
The Aetas in Pampanga, Philippines are indigenous mountain communities currently experiencing social and environmental transitions that may increase vulnerability to diseases. However, there is limited evidence on how acculturation shapes dietary practices, physical activity, and perceptions of disease risk.

METHODS:
This study drew on 5 Focus Group Discussions in two Aeta communities in Pampanga, one situated in an urban area, and another in a rural area. Participants included adult individuals who are patients of ABCs for Global Health’s Mobile Medical Clinics. The tool explored lifestyle patterns, technology exposure, and perceptions of illness. Transcripts were thematically analyzed using an inductive approach to identify recurring themes related to lifestyle changes and health.

RESULTS:
Participants consistently framed traditional diets consisting of boiled vegetables, root crops, and minimal seasoning as protective and healthy, while processed, commercially prepared foods associated with the lowlands were associated with weakness and chronic illness. Acculturation emerged as a factor to shifting diets, particularly among the younger generation that favors lowland and fast foods. Reduced physical activity was also linked to exposure to modern technology. Themes of diet, fatigue, physical activity, environment, heredity, and spiritual imbalance emerged as factors contributing to illnesses.

CONCLUSIONS:
The study showed that the Aeta’s perceptions of health risks are grounded on lived bodily experiences, traditional lifestyle practices, and ecological relationships, other than biomedical risk factors alone. Acculturation brings nutritional and lifestyle vulnerability, particularly for younger generations of their communities exposed to processed foods, reduced physical activity, and digital lifestyles. Indigenous systems of health and illnesses should be acknowledged and incorporated in designing health promotion initiatives.