Wearable fitness trackers could interfere with cardiac devices, study finds

Wearable fitness and wellness trackers could interfere with some implanted cardiac devices such as pacemakers, according to a study.

Devices such as smartwatches, smart rings and smart scales used to monitor fitness-related activities could interfere with the functioning of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) such as pacemakers, implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) devices, the study published in the Heart Rhythm journal found.

He said the results did not convey any immediate or clear risks to patients who wear the trackers. However, the different levels of electrical current emitted by the wearable devices could result in pacing interruptions or unnecessary shocks to the heart. Further research was needed to determine the actual level of risk, Sanchez said.

Most implantable cardiac devices warn patients about the potential for interference with a variety of electronics due to magnetic fields. For example, patients are warned about carrying a mobile phone in a breast pocket near a pacemaker.