Final answer:
Increased erythropoietic activity would lead to increased iron absorption due to the body's need for more iron to support the synthesis of hemoglobin for additional red blood cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
If erythropoietic activity is increased over a prolonged period of time, one would predict an increased absorption of iron (A). This is because the production of red blood cells requires iron for the formation of hemoglobin. When erythropoiesis is stimulated, for example, by the hormone erythropoietin (EPO), the need for iron increases to support the production of additional red blood cells. As a result, the body enhances the uptake of iron from the intestine to meet this increased demand.
Iron absorption is both actively regulated and subject to the body's iron stores and needs. When there is a higher demand for red blood cell production, like in anemic individuals or those experiencing chronic bleeding, there is an accelerated release of iron into the bloodstream from the intestine. Factors that can shape iron absorption include dietary components and the presence of certain conditions like pernicious anemia. Consequently, with increased erythropoietic activity, the body adapts by increasing iron absorption to ensure sufficient availability for red blood cell synthesis.