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Caloric Deficits 101: Unlocking the Science of Sustainable Weight Loss (Target keywords: caloric deficits, weight loss, sustainable)

Caloric deficits are a fundamental concept in the world of weight loss, and understanding how they work is crucial for achieving sustainable weight loss. At its core, a caloric deficit occurs when the body burns more calories than it consumes, resulting in a reduction of body fat and weight. In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind caloric deficits, exploring how they work, how to create them, and most importantly, how to make them sustainable.

Understanding Caloric Deficits

To grasp the concept of caloric deficits, it’s essential to understand the basics of calories and energy balance. Calories are units of energy that the body uses to function, and they come from the food we eat. When we consume calories, our body uses them to fuel various activities, such as breathing, moving, and thinking. The amount of calories our body needs to function at rest is known as our basal metabolic rate (BMR).

When we eat, we provide our body with the energy it needs to function. However, when we consume more calories than our body needs, the excess energy is stored as fat. This is where caloric deficits come in. A caloric deficit occurs when we consume fewer calories than our body needs, forcing it to use stored energy sources, such as fat, to make up for the shortage. This results in weight loss, as the body burns more calories than it consumes.

Creating a Caloric Deficit

So, how do we create a caloric deficit? The most effective way is by reducing caloric intake through diet and increasing energy expenditure through exercise. This can be achieved by eating fewer calories, reducing portion sizes, and avoiding high-calorie foods. Additionally, incorporating regular exercise, such as cardio and strength training, can help increase energy expenditure and create a caloric deficit.

For example, if an individual’s daily caloric needs are 2,500 calories, they can create a caloric deficit by consuming 2,000 calories per day. This would result in a daily caloric deficit of 500 calories, which can lead to weight loss over time. It’s essential to note that a caloric deficit should be gradual and sustainable, with a daily deficit of 500-1000 calories recommended for most adults.

The Importance of Sustainable Weight Loss

Sustainable weight loss is a critical aspect of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Crash diets and extreme caloric restriction may lead to rapid weight loss, but they are often unsustainable and can result in weight regain. A sustainable caloric deficit, on the other hand, allows for gradual weight loss while preserving muscle mass and ensuring the body gets the nutrients it needs.

A well-planned caloric deficit should take into account individual factors, such as age, sex, weight, height, and activity level. It’s also essential to focus on nutrient-dense foods, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods provide the body with the necessary nutrients while keeping caloric intake in check.

Making Caloric Deficits Sustainable

So, how can we make caloric deficits sustainable? The key is to focus on lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes. This means adopting healthy eating habits, such as meal planning, portion control, and mindful eating. It’s also essential to incorporate regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or weightlifting, to increase energy expenditure.

Additionally, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying hydrated are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. When we’re tired, stressed, or dehydrated, our body’s metabolic rate slows down, making it more challenging to create a caloric deficit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When creating a caloric deficit, there are common mistakes to avoid. One of the most significant mistakes is severe caloric restriction, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and a slowed metabolic rate. Another mistake is neglecting to incorporate physical activity, which can result in muscle loss and a decreased metabolic rate.

It’s also essential to avoid relying on fad diets or quick fixes, which can be unsustainable and lead to weight regain. Instead, focus on making gradual, sustainable lifestyle changes that promote healthy eating and regular exercise.

The Role of Macronutrients

Macronutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, and fat, play a crucial role in creating a caloric deficit. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body, while protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Fat, on the other hand, is necessary for hormone production and absorption of vitamins.

When creating a caloric deficit, it’s essential to focus on balancing macronutrient intake. A general guideline is to consume 15-20% of daily calories from protein, 25-30% from fat, and 55-60% from carbohydrates. However, individual macronutrient needs may vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and activity level.

The Impact of Hormones

Hormones, such as insulin, leptin, and ghrelin, play a significant role in regulating hunger, satiety, and metabolism. When we create a caloric deficit, our hormone levels can fluctuate, affecting our appetite and metabolism. For example, when we eat fewer calories, our insulin levels decrease, which can lead to increased fat burning.

Understanding the impact of hormones on our body can help us create a more effective caloric deficit. For instance, incorporating protein-rich foods, which can help regulate insulin levels, and healthy fats, which can support hormone production, can help create a more sustainable caloric deficit.

Conclusion

Caloric deficits are a powerful tool for achieving sustainable weight loss. By understanding how they work and how to create them, individuals can take control of their weight and improve their overall health. Remember, a caloric deficit should be gradual and sustainable, with a focus on lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes.

By incorporating healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and balancing macronutrient intake, individuals can create a sustainable caloric deficit that promotes weight loss and overall health. It’s essential to avoid common mistakes, such as severe caloric restriction and neglecting physical activity, and to focus on making gradual, sustainable lifestyle changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a caloric deficit?
A: A caloric deficit occurs when the body burns more calories than it consumes, resulting in a reduction of body fat and weight.

Q: How do I create a caloric deficit?
A: You can create a caloric deficit by reducing caloric intake through diet and increasing energy expenditure through exercise.

Q: What is the recommended daily caloric deficit for weight loss?
A: A daily caloric deficit of 500-1000 calories is recommended for most adults.

Q: How can I make my caloric deficit sustainable?
A: Focus on lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and balancing macronutrient intake.

Q: What are common mistakes to avoid when creating a caloric deficit?
A: Severe caloric restriction, neglecting physical activity, and relying on fad diets or quick fixes are common mistakes to avoid.

Q: How do macronutrients affect my caloric deficit?
A: Macronutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, and fat, play a crucial role in creating a caloric deficit. Balancing macronutrient intake can help create a more effective caloric deficit.

Q: Can hormones affect my caloric deficit?
A: Yes, hormones such as insulin, leptin, and ghrelin can affect hunger, satiety, and metabolism, and understanding their impact can help create a more effective caloric deficit.

caloric-deficits-101-unlocking-the-science-of-sustainable-weight-loss-target-keywords-caloric-deficits-weight-loss-sustainable

October 20, 2025
How the Affluent Are Maintaining Their Youthful Appearance

There’s this woman I see sometimes at charity galas. She’s probably in her late fifties, maybe early sixties, but honestly, it’s impossible to tell. Not because she looks frozen or fake, but because she radiates this effortless vitality that makes age feel irrelevant. Her skin glows. Her face has character and expression. She just looks like the best possible version of herself.

I finally got up the courage to ask her about it at an event last spring. We were both reaching for champagne, and I just blurted it out. “You look amazing. What’s your secret?”

She smiled, and here’s what surprised me most. She didn’t deflect or pretend it was all genetics and green juice. She leaned in and said, “I stopped fighting aging and started being intentional about it.”

The Shift From Chasing Youth to Preserving Vitality

That conversation changed how I think about aging in affluent circles. The people who look truly exceptional aren’t trying to look twenty again. They’re not chasing some impossible standard or erasing every line on their face. They’re doing something smarter and more sustainable.

They’re being strategic. Thoughtful. They’re treating their appearance the way they treat everything else valuable in their lives: as something worth investing in properly.

My friend Catherine, who runs a successful interior design firm, put it perfectly over dinner recently. “I renovate million-dollar homes for clients. I understand the value of good bones and proper maintenance. Why would I treat my own face any differently?”

She’s not wrong. We spend hundreds of thousands on homes, cars, and art collections. We invest in experiences, education, and wellness. But somehow, there’s still this lingering guilt around investing in how we look, as if vanity is the worst possible sin.

When Maintenance Becomes Necessity

Here’s what I’ve noticed about people who look genuinely good as they age: they don’t wait until everything’s fallen apart. They’re proactive, not reactive. They address concerns before they become crises.

Think about it this way. You don’t wait until your roof is caving in to call a contractor. You don’t ignore the check engine light until your car dies on the highway. Yet so many of us watch our faces change dramatically year after year, telling ourselves we’ll deal with it later, or that caring about it makes us shallow.

My acquaintance Robert, who’s built multiple successful businesses, told me something that stuck with me. “The most expensive mistakes I’ve made were the ones where I waited too long to act. Whether it’s a business opportunity or something personal, timing matters.”

He was talking about finally addressing the jowls and neck laxity that had been bothering him for years. Not because anyone else cared, but because every time he looked in the mirror or saw himself in photos, there was this disconnect between how he felt and what he saw.

The Investment That Actually Lasts

What separates truly wealthy individuals from everyone else isn’t just money. It’s the understanding that quality matters more than cost. They don’t look for the cheapest option. They look for the best option.

When it comes to facial rejuvenation, this means finding a surgeon who’s not just competent but exceptional. Someone who understands that faces need to move and express emotion. Someone whose work is so natural that people can’t quite figure out what’s different, they just know you look fantastic.

I spent months researching before I made any decisions myself. I wasn’t just Googling “best facelift surgeon near me” and picking whoever came up first. I was looking at credentials, examining before and after photos for hours, and reading every review I could find. I talked to friends who’d had work done. I asked questions that probably annoyed some people.

What I learned is that the surgeons who really get it, who understand the aesthetic goals of discerning clients, are rare. They’re artists as much as they’re doctors. And when you find one, like YMD Facial Plastic Surgery, you understand immediately why some practices have waiting lists and why people travel for their expertise.

The Emotional Truth Nobody Mentions

Can we talk about the emotional weight of watching yourself age? Because nobody really does, at least not honestly.

There’s this morning I remember vividly. I was getting ready for an important meeting, and the light in my bathroom was particularly unforgiving. I looked at my reflection and barely recognized myself. Not because I looked bad exactly, but because the face looking back at me didn’t match the person I felt like inside.

That’s the thing they don’t tell you about aging. You still feel like yourself. Your personality doesn’t sag. Your energy doesn’t necessarily diminish. Your mind stays sharp. But your face starts telling a different story, and the disconnect can be genuinely distressing.

The relief that comes from addressing that disconnect? It’s profound in ways I didn’t expect. It’s not about looking twenty again or erasing your entire history. It’s about looking in the mirror and recognizing yourself. Feeling like your outside matches your inside.

What Sophistication Actually Looks Like

The most elegant people I know approach facial rejuvenation the same way they approach everything else in their lives: with intention, research, and a refusal to settle for mediocre results.

They understand that this isn’t about a quick fix or following trends. It’s about working with someone who can create results that last, that look natural, that enhance rather than change who they are fundamentally.

They also understand that there’s a difference between maintenance procedures and transformative ones. Sometimes subtle tweaks are enough. Sometimes you need something more comprehensive. The key is being honest with yourself about what you actually need and finding someone skilled enough to deliver it.

Moving Forward With Confidence

My friend at the gala was right. The secret isn’t fighting aging tooth and nail. It’s being intentional about it. It’s making thoughtful decisions about when to act and who to trust with something as important as your face.

Because here’s what I’ve come to understand: taking care of your appearance isn’t vanity. It’s not superficial. It’s part of taking care of yourself completely. It’s honoring the fact that how you present to the world matters, not because of other people’s opinions, but because of your own peace of mind.

The people who look timelessly elegant aren’t lucky. They’re strategic. They’re invested in themselves. And they understand that true luxury isn’t about excess, it’s about excellence.

That’s the real secret. Not a miracle cream or a magic procedure, but the willingness to prioritize yourself with the same care and attention you give to everything else you value.

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October 20, 2025
The COPD Caregiver's Toolkit

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute –
Related MedlinePlus Pages: COPD

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October 20, 2025
That’s a wrap on FNCE® 2025
FNCE 2025 offered a broad look at emerging trends, technologies, and conversations shaping the nutrition profession. Held in Nashville, USA, from October 11-14, it was an incredible opportunity for the Dietitian Connection team to connect with so many trail-blazers in the field, and we came away with so many lessons.

Here are five key takeaways from this year’s conference:

Food as connection, culture, and community

Chef Carla Hall opened FNCE with an inspiring reminder that food is more than fuel. It’s a reflection of who we are and how we connect. Her message set an uplifting tone for the week and grounded the conference in what truly brings us together.

Creatine is having a moment

Creatine was everywhere — from the expo floor to the learning lounge and education sessions. Interest in this area is expanding beyond performance into areas like cognition, aging, and women’s health.

Is fiber the new protein?

After several years of protein-focused products, this year brought a noticeable shift back to fiber. With “fibermaxxing” trending in the media, fiber-forward products had the opportunity to seize the moment.

AI will reshape nutrition communication

AI is influencing how dietitians create, share, and even see their content re-used online. Conversations around accuracy, evidence-based information, and how the RD voice can feed large language models are becoming increasingly important.

But, where was the food in the expo hall?

To us, the expo floor looked a little different. There seemed to be fewer commodity boards and food samples and more supplements, tech, and business solutions. Innovation in the industry is exciting, but it raised a question: have we moved a bit too far from the plate at a food and nutrition conference?

Find out more in these recaps from trailblazing early-career dietitian Alyssa Smolen, MS, RDN, CDN:
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October 20, 2025
Helping Employees Navigate High Deductibles With Smarter Prescription Options

High-deductible healthcare plans have become a common benefits option, especially among smaller businesses, because they help reduce monthly premium costs for the employer. However, these plans often shift more financial responsibility onto employees, leading to significantly higher out-of-pocket expenses for prescriptions and other medical care. As a result, rising healthcare costs are placing increasing strain on household budgets.

As deductibles increase alongside prescription medication costs, the associated financial challenges can significantly strain employees’ budgets. For employers, taking steps to ease these burdens is more than a gesture of goodwill — it’s a business strategy. Supporting employees with tools and benefits that make healthcare more affordable can improve retention, boost productivity and position the organization as an employer of choice in a competitive market. Companies strengthen workforce well-being and long-term business performance by providing employees with the resources to access and afford the care they need.

As Matthew Herfield, co-founder and CEO of BuzzRx, a free prescription savings platform, explained during a recent conversation, employers can help their employees navigate high deductibles in various ways.

Encourage the Use of Generic Drugs

When it comes to prescriptions, Herfield advises that one of the most immediately impactful actions employers can take is to encourage the use of generic drugs. “Generic drugs cost an average of 80 to 85% less than the brand-name equivalent,” he explains.

“The FDA still requires that generics have the same active ingredient, safety and effectiveness as the brand-name medication. When generics aren’t available, there are often biosimilar drugs that treat the same condition, but with a different active ingredient and at a much lower cost than the most expensive and well-known brands.”

While generic alternatives aren’t available for every brand-name drug, employers can work with their pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) to create a formulary that prioritizes generics. Plans could also use step therapy, which requires the use of the generic drug before switching to a more expensive brand-name version.

Utilize Prescription Discount Programs

Herfield also notes that prescription discount programs, such as those offered by BuzzRx, can further reduce prescription drug costs for employees. “Our prescription discount program is completely free, and can be used by employees to fill gaps in insurance coverage and provide additional cost savings,” he explains.

“Depending on the medication, the negotiated discount rate that your employees would pay at the pharmacy with BuzzRx could be less than what they would pay with their insurance copayment or coinsurance. This is especially true of high-deductible plans, which can have higher out-of-pocket costs for higher-tiered medications. By providing a free and easy-to-use prescription discount card, employees are given another helpful opportunity to save on their healthcare costs.”

According to Herfield, BuzzRx users can save up to 80% off the retail price of prescription medications when they present their card at one of over 60,000 participating pharmacies nationwide. Using either insurance or the discount card ensures that employees can always get the best available price.

Encourage HSA Contributions

Employees in high-deductible plans often have another resource available: health savings accounts (HSAs). As Herfield explains, these accounts can be a valuable way to save on medical expenses.

“With an HSA, the money you contribute to the savings account isn’t taxed, nor is the interest it earns while in the account. As long as you use it for a qualified medical expense, which includes prescription drugs, you won’t pay any taxes when funds are withdrawn,” Herfield says.

“This essentially allows employees to keep more of their take-home pay that would get used for medical expenses, rather than having it taxed before they pay for medical care. Best of all, unused funds roll over, and employees can keep their contributions even if they change jobs.”

Employers who offer HSA-eligible high-deductible health plans should offer resources to help their employees set up an HSA for their out-of-pocket expenses. Many employers allow for direct contributions through payroll deduction to simplify the process, and some even offer matching contributions.

Incentivize Employee Wellness

Finally, Herfield recommends that employers incentivize a variety of employee wellness initiatives. “Giving access to different wellness programs, from gym memberships and weight management support to mental health counseling and stress management, can go a long way in improving employee physical, mental and emotional health,” he explains.

“A proactive approach to employee wellness not only helps individuals better manage chronic conditions and reduce their risk of illness or injury, but also lowers healthcare costs while driving higher productivity, engagement and lower absenteeism in the workplace.”

In addition to programs designed to directly influence employee health, Herfield also recommends that employers offer educational resources to help employees better manage costs within their healthcare plan. For example, knowing when to visit urgent care rather than the ER or understanding the value of generic prescription drugs can have a big impact on employees with high-deductible plans.

Employers can tailor their programs to improve financial, physical and mental health by taking a holistic approach that focuses on maximizing the benefit for their workforce.

You Can Help Employees Manage Costs

High medical costs are a complex issue that likely won’t be truly resolved anytime soon. However, employers can ensure better health and financial outcomes by taking steps to help employees navigate high deductibles, particularly when it comes to prescription medications.

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October 20, 2025
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October 19, 2025
Work-Life Balance Made Easy: Tips for Separating Home and Office
Introduction to Work-Life Balance

Achieving a work-life balance is a challenge that many individuals face in today’s fast-paced and often demanding work environment. With the advancement of technology and the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life, it can be difficult to separate the two. However, it is essential to strike a balance between work and personal life to maintain productivity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the concept of work-life balance, the importance of separating home and office, and provide practical tips for achieving a healthy balance between work and personal life.

Understanding the Concept of Work-Life Balance

Work-life balance refers to the ability to manage work and personal responsibilities effectively, without compromising one’s physical and mental health. It involves setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and creating a schedule that allows for both work and personal time. Achieving a work-life balance is crucial for maintaining productivity, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. When an individual has a good work-life balance, they are more likely to be motivated, focused, and productive at work, and have a better quality of life outside of work.

The Importance of Separating Home and Office

Separating home and office is essential for achieving a work-life balance. When the lines between work and personal life are blurred, it can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of productivity. Working from home or being constantly available for work can make it difficult to disconnect from work-related tasks and responsibilities, leading to an imbalance in personal and work life. By separating home and office, individuals can create a clear distinction between work and personal time, allowing them to focus on their personal life and recharge for the next workday.

Tips for Separating Home and Office

Here are some practical tips for separating home and office:
- Create a dedicated workspace: Designate a specific area of your home as your workspace and keep it organized and clutter-free. This will help you associate this space with work and avoid the temptation to work outside of work hours.
- Establish a routine: Create a routine that includes specific work hours and personal time. Stick to this routine as much as possible, even on weekends and days off.
- Set boundaries: Set clear boundaries with your employer, colleagues, and clients regarding your work hours and availability. This will help prevent work from creeping into your personal time.
- Use technology wisely: Technology can be both a blessing and a curse when it comes to work-life balance. Use tools and apps that help you stay organized and focused, but avoid the temptation to check work emails or take work calls outside of work hours.
- Take breaks: Take regular breaks throughout the day to recharge and refocus. This can include taking a walk, meditating, or doing something you enjoy.
- Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones.
Managing Work-Related Stress

Managing work-related stress is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Here are some tips for managing work-related stress:
- Identify the sources of stress: Identify the sources of stress in your work life, such as a heavy workload, difficult colleagues, or a lack of control over your work.
- Prioritize tasks: Prioritize tasks and focus on the most important ones first. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
- Seek support: Seek support from colleagues, friends, or family members when you need it. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or delegate tasks when possible.
- Practice self-care: Practice self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or yoga, to help manage stress and reduce anxiety.
- Set realistic goals: Set realistic goals and expectations for yourself, and celebrate your achievements along the way.
The Benefits of a Good Work-Life Balance

Achieving a good work-life balance has numerous benefits, including:
- Improved productivity: When you have a good work-life balance, you are more likely to be focused, motivated, and productive at work.
- Reduced stress: A good work-life balance can help reduce stress and anxiety, leading to a better quality of life.
- Improved relationships: When you have time for personal relationships and activities, you are more likely to build strong, meaningful relationships with family and friends.
- Better health: A good work-life balance can lead to better physical and mental health, as you have time for self-care activities and can manage stress more effectively.
Conclusion

Achieving a work-life balance is a challenge that many individuals face, but it is essential for maintaining productivity, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. By separating home and office, creating a routine, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, individuals can create a healthy balance between work and personal life. Remember, achieving a work-life balance is a process, and it may take time to find the right balance for you. Be patient, stay committed, and prioritize your well-being.

FAQs
- Q: What is work-life balance?
  A: Work-life balance refers to the ability to manage work and personal responsibilities effectively, without compromising one’s physical and mental health.
- Q: Why is separating home and office important?
  A: Separating home and office is essential for achieving a work-life balance. When the lines between work and personal life are blurred, it can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of productivity.
- Q: How can I manage work-related stress?
  A: Managing work-related stress involves identifying the sources of stress, prioritizing tasks, seeking support, practicing self-care, and setting realistic goals.
October 19, 2025
Opening session reflections FNCE® 2025

Reflections from the 2025 FNCE® Closing Session

By Maree Ferguson

Staying Authentic and Playing the Long Game: Joy Bauer in Conversation with Andy Cohen

At FNCE, Joy Bauer sat down with Andy Cohen for a candid conversation about building a career that blends passion, authenticity, and balance.

There was some controversy with Andy being chosen as the keynote speaker. Not knowing too much about him, as an Australian who doesn’t watch The Real Housewives, I went in with an open mind..

Andy shared that while his “day job” has always remained his main focus, but side projects keep things interesting. His mantra? Lean into the mess. Be yourself, stay relaxed, and go with what you know. Audiences can sense when you’re genuine, and authenticity always wins.

He encouraged dietitians to see today’s media landscape and digital world as full of opportunity. Start small, focus on doing one thing really well, then build from there. “This is a great time for content creators,” Andy said. “There are so many platforms; use them strategically to expand your footprint.”

To stay visible and relevant, Andy suggested focusing on what people already recognize you for, then using that as the foundation to pivot into new areas. A podcast, blog, or social media can help new audiences discover you.

Andy also stressed the importance of discipline and consistency, from meeting every deadline to keeping a clear perspective on what really matters. He shared that writing daily for years helped him reflect, stay grounded and be intentional about life choices. When it comes to balance, family keeps Andy’s career in perspective. He makes time for what matters most, even if that means saying no to opportunities that don’t align.

Despite his success, Andy reminded everyone that “nobody is immune to haters.” His advice: focus on your community, stay true to what you do best, and put your phone down when things feel overwhelming. Reconnect with real people, and remember that what feels big online often isn’t.

Ultimately, Andy’s message was about playing the long game: prioritize what fuels you, protect your time, and keep showing up with passion and purpose.

And a big shoutout to Joy Bauer who nailed the interview! Joy led a dynamic, engaging conversation blending career insights with personal stories, and kept the energy high from start to finish. A truly gifted interviewer!

To see more of Joy in conversation with dietitians – check out our Dietitian to Dietitian webseries.

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October 19, 2025
Nearly 900 Mn Poor People Exposed To Climate Shocks, UN Warns

Nearly 80 percent of the world’s poorest, or about 900 million people, are directly exposed to climate hazards exacerbated by global warming, bearing a “double and deeply unequal burden,” the United Nations warned Friday.

“No one is immune to the increasingly frequent and stronger climate change effects like droughts, floods, heat waves, and air pollution, but it’s the poorest among us who are facing the harshest impact,” Haoliang Xu, acting administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, told AFP in a statement.

COP30, the UN climate summit in Brazil in November, “is the moment for world leaders to look at climate action as action against poverty,” he added.

According to an annual study published by the UNDP together with the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative, 1.1 billion people, or about 18 percent of the 6.3 billion in 109 countries analyzed, live in “acute multidimensional” poverty, based on factors like infant mortality and access to housing, sanitation, electricity and education.

Half of those people are minors.

One example of such extreme deprivation cited in the report is the case of Ricardo, a member of the Guarani Indigenous community living outside Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia’s largest city.

Ricardo, who earns a meager income as a day laborer, shares his small single-family house with 18 other people, including his three children, parents and other extended family.

The house has only one bathroom, a wood- and coal-fired kitchen, and none of the children are in school.

“Their lives reflect the multidimensional realities of poverty,” the report said.

Two regions particularly affected by such poverty are sub-Saharan Africa, and South Asia — and they are also highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

The report highlights the connection between poverty and exposure to four environmental risks: extreme heat, drought, floods, and air pollution.

“Impoverished households are especially susceptible to climate shocks as many depend on highly vulnerable sectors such as agriculture and informal labor,” the report said.

“When hazards overlap or strike repeatedly, they compound existing deprivations.”

As a result, 887 million people, or nearly 79 percent of these poor populations, are directly exposed to at least one of these threats, with 608 million people suffering from extreme heat, 577 million affected by pollution, 465 million by floods, and 207 million by drought.

Roughly 651 million are exposed to at least two of the risks, 309 million to three or four risks, and 11 million poor people have already experienced all four in a single year.

“Concurrent poverty and climate hazards are clearly a global issue,” the report said.

And the increase in extreme weather events threatens development progress.

While South Asia has made progress in fighting poverty, 99.1 percent of its poor population exposed to at least one climate hazard.

The region “must once again chart a new path forward, one that balances determined poverty reduction with innovative climate action,” the report says.

With Earth’s surface rapidly getting warmer, the situation is likely to worsen further and experts warn that today’s poorest countries will be hardest hit by rising temperatures.

“Responding to overlapping risks requires prioritizing both people and the planet, and above all, moving from recognition to rapid action,” the report said.

Severe flooding in Sudan is an example of how the world’s poorest people are also exposed to climate risks

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October 19, 2025
Pancreatic cancer: What you need to know
The pancreas is a gland behind your stomach and in front of your spine. It produces enzymes that help break down food and hormones that control blood sugar levels.

Pancreatic cancer usually begins in these cells. It forms when cells grow out of control and create a tumor. Tumors may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (not cancerous).

Two kinds of pancreatic cancer

About 95% of pancreatic cancers begin in the cells that produce digestive enzymes. This is known as exocrine pancreatic cancer.

Only about 5% of pancreatic cancers begin in the cells that produce hormones. These are known as endocrine pancreatic cancer. Tumors that form in these cells are called pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Pancreatic NETs have a better prognosis (outcome or course of a disease).

Source: National Cancer Institute

Who is at risk?

There are many risk factors for pancreatic cancer, including:

What are the signs and symptoms?

Pancreatic cancer is hard to spot early because it may not cause any signs or symptoms. As the cancer grows, possible symptoms include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
- Light-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Pain in the upper or middle abdomen and back
- Weight loss for no known reason
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
Pancreatic NETs may have different signs and symptoms. They may also cause the body to make too much of the hormone cortisol, leading to Cushing syndrome.

These symptoms may be caused by other conditions, too, so it’s important to discuss any concerns with your doctor.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will likely do a physical exam and ask you about your symptoms and family health history.

Diagnosis is usually done with imaging and other tests to see the pancreas and the area around it. Examples of these tests include ultrasounds, MRIs, CT scans, and taking samples of blood, urine, and tissue. This helps a doctor determine whether it is cancer and, if so, the cancer’s stage (how the tumor has grown or spread).

Many people get a second opinion to help with diagnosis and talk about treatment options. The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Cancer Information Service can help you find a doctor or hospital or with getting a second opinion.

A doctor can diagnose pancreatic cancer with imaging and other tests. Many patients will get a second opinion to confirm a diagnosis and discuss treatment options.

How is it treated?

Treating pancreatic cancer is determined by the cancer’s stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, chemoradiation therapy, or targeted therapy. You and your care team can also plan for how to manage side effects from the treatments and any cancer-related pain.

Researchers around the world are studying new ways to identify pancreatic cancer earlier and improve treatments with support from NCI. Their work includes clinical trials to test these methods and palliative care techniques to improve patients’ quality of life.

Getting support

If you or a loved one are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, there are many resources available that can help. NCI has advice for managing treatment and its side effects, finding emotional support, and managing daily life. Learn more about coping with cancer on the institute’s website.

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