Consumer Alert: FDA warns to keep cell phones more than six inches away from pacemakers

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC)— If you or a loved one has a pacemaker, listen up.

The Food and Drug Administration is warning the magnets in cell phones may affect implanted medical devices. The agency is aware that some consumer electronic devices, such as cell phones and smartwatches, have magnets that may cause implanted devices to go into a magnetic safe mode and temporarily suspend normal operation.

As a result, the FDA is advising you to keep your phone at least six inches away from your pacemaker.

The agency is not aware of any adverse event associated with this issue at this time, and they say the risk to patients is low.