Risks and limits of FTO Frauen

The FTO variant (e.g., rs9939609) is the strongest common genetic marker for obesity in GWAS. However, each risk allele increases BMI by only ~0.3 kg/m². The term 'FTO women' is misleading; the effect occurs in both sexes but may be modulated by hormonal and social factors. Clinical relevance for individuals is limited: lifestyle (diet, exercise, sleep) dominates BMI far more than FTO variants. Direct-to-consumer tests often overstate significance. A genetic test does not replace medical advice. Risks include false reassurance or fatalistic attitudes. Evidence: human–moderate (GWAS, meta-analyses).