Published Wednesday, 25 August 2010
It is now the most common form of cancer in the region, accounting for more than a quarter of all cases.
Melanoma, the most serious form the illness can take, has become twice as common each decade for the past 30 years.
Experts believe that the rise in sunbed use over the period has contributed significantly to the dramatic increase.
"Skin cancer is the number one cancer in Northern Ireland and the most serious form - malignant melanoma - is increasing at an alarming rate," PHA chief executive Dr Eddie Rooney told UTV.
"Research shows us that the use of sunbeds before the age of 35 can increase the risk rate by over 75%.
"Our message to young people is don't use sunbeds and put your health before your image."
The main risk factor for skin cancer comes from over-exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation (UV) either as a result of natural sunlight or by using a sunbed.
Using a sunbed once a month or more can increase the risk of developing skin cancer by more than half and using sunbeds before the age of 35 years can increase the risk of developing melanoma skin cancer by up to 75%.
"Over the last 20-30 years melanoma incidence has been doubling every decade," said Dr Clifford McMillan from the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.
"It is now one of the commonest cancers in young women who also happen to be the group most likely to use sunbeds.
"While sunbed usage does not fully account for the increase in melanoma it is a significant risk factor and one that could be and should be avoided."
A cancer awareness campaign was launched by the PHA on Wednesday, aimed at improving public knowledge of the health effects of sunbed use, especially among young people.
"It will involve TV adverts, we've got over 100 posters close to tanning salons, and leaflets will be sent to leisure facilities, schools, GPs and hairdressers giving very good simple advice," Dr Rooney continued.
"There is a common misconception that sunbeds offer a safe way to get a tan but this again is not true."
Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said he hopes the campaign will alert young people to the risks associated with sunbed usage.
"This campaign reinforces a very important message about the dangers of using sunbeds, particularly to young people," the Ulster Unionist minister said.
"I have recently introduced legislation to the assembly to regulate the use of sunbeds in Northern Ireland.
"This will ensure that when implemented it will help protect people, particularly young people, of the risks associated with using sunbeds."
Tommy Gallagher, SDLP health spokesman, also welcomed the launch.
"This is an issue that needs to be tackled," the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said.
"There are serious questions that need to be asked around the issue of sunbeds and potential links to cases of skin cancer.
"I look forward to the detailed work challenging the Stormont Health Committee in the coming weeks on skincare legislation and further hope that all the issues will be dealt with when the relevant comes before the assembly."