The study indicates that nearly 29 out of every 100 respondents reported having reduced or postponed spending on items considered essential, while another 37 acknowledged cutting back their family budget—though they are still able to cover their basic needs.

This latter group reported dining out less frequently—at restaurants or cafés—or ordering food delivery less often, as well as putting off vacations, the purchase of clothing and footwear, technology products, and other goods.

Furthermore, 34 percent of survey participants reported reducing their spending on food, and a quarter had to postpone medical check-ups, dental care, or the purchase of medication.

Paulina Valenzuela, a founding partner at Datavoz, noted that when budget cuts extend to food or healthcare, it results in a risky deferral of critical needs.

Another finding from the survey is that two-fifths of respondents stated that their personal debt has increased over the last six months, which has an impact on their daily lives.

In a climate where finding employment is extremely difficult and many people work in the informal sector, facing an unexpected expense can become a major source of uncertainty, Jorge Fábrega, Director of Social Trends at Datavoz, told the news outlet *El Mostrador*.

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