The screening, treatment and control of high blood pressure are being handled inadequately nationwide, according to a new study released by the Stanford University School of Medicine.

The study, published in the May issue of “Hypertension,” analyzed data from a 2003-2004 study on medical care services provided at the offices of private physicians across the country. It found that, across the board, doctors are not conducting blood pressure screenings routinely enough. Also, a very low percentage of patients diagnosed with high blood pressure actually reach recommended blood pressure reduction goals after diagnosis.

The study was authored by former Stanford research associate Jun Ma and Randall Stafford, associate professor of medicine.