Vidcast:  https://youtu.be/hOZb_hIGmBk

 

From the FDA’s science and engineering lab comes the warning that your iPhone or any electronic device with a strong magnetic coupling interface could generate magnetic fields capable of activating the magnetic switches that control implantable pacemakers and cardioverter-defibrillators.

 

The magnetic switches in these devices are designed to be triggered by magnetic fields stronger than 10 gauss.  To test the ability of the Apple iPhone 12 series and the Apple Watches to accidentally set off these switches, the FDA measured the magnetic fields around these devices at various distances.

 

All the 12 series iPhones and the Apple Watch generate magnetic fields greater than 10 gauss up to 11 millimeters or nearly a half inch away.  For safety sake, the FDA scientists recommend keeping these phones and the watch at least 6 inches away from the implantable device site.  

 

Why?  If a pacemaker’s magnetic switch is activated, it could begin pacing when unneeded leading to abnormal heart rhythms.  Mistakenly activating the switch on an implantable defibrillator prevents it from functioning and providing a heart-starting, lifesaving jolt when needed. Other implantable devices with magnetic switches including cochlear implants, infusion pumps, and neurostimulators may be similarly affected.

 

So let me repeat, for safety sake, keep your iPhones and Apple Watches at least 6 inches from any implantable device.  One more thing…recent iPads have magnets too.

 

https://www.heartrhythmjournal.com/article/S1547-5271(21)01859-2/fulltext

 

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