A Electromagnetic interference of external pacemakers by walkie-talkies and digital cellular phones: experimental study.
Trigano AJ, Azoulay A, Rochdi M, Campillo · 1999
View Original AbstractWalkie-talkies and cell phones caused dangerous interference in most external pacemakers tested, at distances up to 6 feet away.
Plain English Summary
Researchers tested how walkie-talkies and cell phones interfere with external pacemakers (temporary heart devices used in hospitals). They found that 8 out of 9 pacemakers experienced dangerous disruptions from walkie-talkies, while 4 were affected by GSM phones and 2 by newer digital phones. The interference occurred at distances up to 6 feet away, potentially putting critically ill patients at risk.
Why This Matters
This study reveals a critical safety gap that most people never consider: wireless devices can interfere with life-saving medical equipment. While much attention focuses on whether EMF affects healthy people, this research demonstrates clear, measurable harm to vulnerable patients whose hearts depend on electronic pacing. The fact that 89% of pacemakers tested showed interference from walkie-talkies, and nearly half from cell phones, highlights how ubiquitous RF radiation can disrupt sensitive electronics. What makes this particularly concerning is that hospitals are filled with wireless devices, from staff cell phones to communication systems, yet many healthcare workers remain unaware of these interference risks. The reality is that EMF doesn't just pose theoretical health concerns - it can create immediate, life-threatening situations for patients with implanted or external cardiac devices.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Study Details
The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate electromagnetic interference of external pacemakers by walkie-talkies and digital cellular telephones.
External bipolar pacing was monitored using a digital oscilloscope to record pacemaker pulses and el...
This experimental study shows a potential risk of interference of external pacemakers by walkie-talk...
Show BibTeX
@article{aj_1999_a_electromagnetic_interference_of_2632,
author = {Trigano AJ and Azoulay A and Rochdi M and Campillo},
title = {A Electromagnetic interference of external pacemakers by walkie-talkies and digital cellular phones: experimental study.},
year = {1999},
url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10234711/},
}