Body mass (BMI) tendency

FTO is the most consistently replicated common gene linked to body weight. Its effect on BMI is real but small (a nudge, not destiny) and is easily outweighed by diet and activity.

Possible results

Higher BMI tendency. You carry two copies of the FTO variant most consistently linked to body weight. On average it nudges appetite and weight slightly upward, but the effect is small and easily outweighed by diet, activity and sleep. It's a gentle tendency, not a verdict.

Slight BMI tendency. You carry one copy of the FTO weight-associated variant. Its effect on body weight is small, and day-to-day habits matter far more than this gene.

Lower BMI tendency. You don't carry the FTO weight-raising variant, so as far as this gene goes you lean toward a slightly lower average body weight. Many genes and habits shape weight, so this is just one small piece.

Evidence & sources

This variant appears in 6 published genetic studies: PubMed 17434869 · PubMed 19079261 · PubMed 19396169 · PubMed 27790247 · PubMed 31217584 · PubMed 31513605.

Related

Age-related macular degeneration risk · Alzheimer's disease · Coronary artery disease · Longevity-associated variant (FOXO3) · Rheumatoid arthritis · Systolic blood pressure · Venous thromboembolism (clots)