Pacemakers and Electronics

Carol got a letter from someone about pacemakers being effected by iPhones, and other Apple devices.  I was interested in that and started reading about it. I found a link on Apple’s website, and it is true, there can be some magnetic interference that could effect a pacemaker, though it’s not just Apple devices. Apple’s link on the subject is HERE. 

As I was reading about that, it occurred to me that all smart devices may have this issue, and so, I Googled that. It turns out that yes, other brands of smart phones and devices have the same issues. An article from the FDA is HERE.

You’ve probably seen microwave warnings at restaurants, and that is for the same reason. The thing is, there are a LOT of electronics that create magnetic fields, some of which can no doubt create an issue with a medical device. I imagine that if you have such a device, then you have been warned about these things. It certainly doesn’t seem like the warning is dire. Don’t place your cell phone in your pocket over the medical implant. It doesn’t say not to put it in the other breast pocket.
All in all, it was interesting reading but nothing to be worried about.