ArticleBMJ global health2026
Living in the dark: self-perceived health and social impacts of nationwide electricity rationing in Ecuador.
Article in BMJ global health, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
backgroundIn 2024, Ecuador faced its most severe drought in over six decades, severely disrupting hydroelectric power generation and triggering prolonged nationwide energy rationing. This crisis had far-reaching consequences affecting essential services, economic activity, public safety and population health. The objective of this investigation is to assess the multidimensional self-perceived impacts of extreme energy rationing on health, economic stability and social well-being across Ecuador.
methodsWe conducted a cross-sectional survey across all regions of Ecuador using a self-administered online questionnaire between August 2024 and February 2025. The survey included 38 structured items and the validated Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation 10 (CORE-10) scale to evaluate psychological distress. A total of 845 valid responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ² tests, t-tests and ordinal logistic regression (p<0.05).
resultsOf 845 respondents, 60.95% were women and the mean age was 42 years. The majority resided in the Highland region. A total of 76.86% reported mood changes during blackouts and 26.31% experienced panic or anxiety attacks. Emotional distress was reflected in high levels of frustration (48.72%), helplessness (40.32%) and irritability (35.2%). Social and family life was disrupted in 84.04% of participants. Among those with chronic illnesses, 7.59% reported health deterioration and 11.19% had difficulty accessing medication. Economic losses were significant: 18.18% lost between US$501 and US$1000, while 48.4% reported losses under US$500. Additional effects included impaired sleep (54.86%), disrupted eating habits, concerns about food spoilage and heightened insecurity.
conclusionProlonged energy rationing in Ecuador had substantial impacts on psychological well-being, chronic disease management, household stability and economic resilience. These findings underscore the urgent need for diversified energy sources, strengthened health infrastructure and targeted support for vulnerable populations to mitigate the consequences of future energy crises.
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