Can a consumer DNA test interpret MC4R reliably?

Consumer DNA tests can reliably genotype common variants in the MC4R gene (e.g., rs17782313) because these are well-covered on SNP chips. However, interpretation is problematic: effect sizes on BMI are small (typically <0.5 kg/m² per risk allele) and heavily confounded by lifestyle. Rare, pathogenic MC4R mutations causing monogenic obesity are usually not covered by standard consumer arrays. The evidence for association comes from GWAS, but clinical utility for individuals is limited. Caveat: without medical context, results may lead to overinterpretation or false reassurance.