WASHINGTON, July 30 (Xinhua) -- Americans are using credit cards less frequently due to the economic downturn, according to anew study released Wednesday.

    The findings, released by research firm Javelin Strategy & Research Wednesday, shows that Americans are cutting back on credit card use and having difficulty paying off balances.

    The study indicates conservative spending behaviors as a result of the economic downturn and the ramifications of the mortgage crisis, soaring fuel costs and rising food prices.

    Among the key findings, 37 percent of consumers say they are using their credit cards less while 28 percent say their ability to pay off their credit card balance has become more difficult.

    One out of every three consumers said they are buying fewer basic goods.

    Some 57 percent of those surveyed say they have become more concerned over how often they eat out at restaurants.

    The report is based on data collected from a random sample of 1,500 respondents targeting representative proportions of gender, age and income as compared to the overall U.S. population.