What is a common long-term consequence of systemic corticosteroid treatment?

Weight gain is a well-documented and common long-term consequence of systemic corticosteroid treatment. Corticosteroids can lead to weight gain through several mechanisms. They can increase appetite, alter metabolism, and lead to fat redistribution in the body, often resulting in an increased accumulation of fat in certain areas, like the abdomen and face. This is particularly noticeable with long-term use, where patients may experience not only increased overall body weight but also changes in body composition.

The other options do not typically associate with long-term corticosteroid use in the same way. Severe headaches, hair growth, and lower blood pressure may occur due to various medical conditions or treatment interventions but are not characteristic results of prolonged corticosteroid therapy. Hence, weight gain stands out as a prominent and anticipated side effect in patients receiving systemic corticosteroids over an extended period.