Which of the following statements is true regarding the side effects of long-term steroid use?

Long-term use of steroids is associated with various systemic effects due to their broad impact on the body's metabolism and immune function. One significant risk of prolonged steroid therapy is an increased susceptibility to infections. This occurs primarily because steroids suppress the immune system and diminish the body’s inflammatory response, which is crucial for fighting off pathogens. As a result, individuals on long-term steroid therapy may find it harder to combat infections, making this statement accurate.

Understanding the implications of prolonged steroid use is vital in clinical practice, as healthcare providers must weigh the benefits of steroid therapy against these risks, especially in patients with underlying health issues, those who are elderly, or individuals receiving high doses. Managing these risks often involves carefully monitoring the patient and implementing preventative measures against infections.

The other statements do not hold true for long-term steroid use. While gastrointestinal disturbances can occur, they are not guaranteed side effects for every patient. Psychological health can indeed be affected, with long-term steroid use often causing mood swings, anxiety, or even depression in some patients. Finally, while side effects can be pronounced with short-term use, many significant adverse effects are more prevalent and pronounced with long-term administration, making it clear that the nature of steroid side effects changes over time rather than being primarily a concern