Close contact: Why pacemakers and electronic devices don’t always mix

Pacemaker wearers should be careful not to get too close to electronic devices. — AFP Relaxnews

Pacemaker wearers should keep a reasonable distance – at least 15cm – from devices containing magnets or components and transmitters that produce electromagnetic fields. These are notably found in smartphones, tablets and laptops, as well as in wireless speakers and headphones.

Even if the risk of accident is rare, under certain conditions, these magnets and electromagnetic fields can interfere with the proper functioning of pacemakers or even cause them to stop. In order to avoid any risk, pacemaker wearers are strongly advised to maintain a safe distance between themselves and the product in question. It's therefore best to keep a distance of 15cm to 30cm between these products and the implanted medical device.