A patient with chronic anemia also has elevated levels of 2,3-BPG in their red blood cells. Why does this adaptation occur in response to the anemic condition?

💡 Explanation

The elevated 2,3-BPG level shifts the oxygen dissociation curve to the right, decreasing hemoglobin's oxygen affinity. This facilitates oxygen unloading in tissues, compensating for reduced oxygen-carrying capacity because the tissues need more oxygen; therefore, option C is correct, rather than increasing affinity or stabilizing hemoglobin.

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