As part of its special report on the humanitarian impact of the U.S.-led war in Iraq, titled “Iraq: Ten Years On,” IRIN examines the “impact of the 2003 invasion and subsequent conflict on Iraq’s health care system.” The news service writes, “The conflict shattered Iraq’s primary health care delivery, disease control and prevention services, and health research infrastructure. Attempts to resurrect Iraq’s health care system remain hindered by a number of factors, including fragile national security and lack of utilities like water and electricity.” IRIN outlines how the country’s once “robust” health care system has deteriorated, resulting in a lack of trained medical professionals, unvaccinated children, little health insurance, and high rates of mental health issues. However, life expectancy has increased, rates of child mortality have dropped, and government expenditures on health care have increased over the last decade, the news service notes (5/2).