The number of people being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer has almost doubled in the last ten years.
According to figures released by the Irish Cancer Society, the incidence of the disease increased in men and women across all age groups by 92% from 1998-2008.
However, the biggest increase has been in people in their 60s and 70s.
The ICS said melanoma skin cancer, otherwise known as malignant melanoma, is the most dangerous and difficult to treat form of skin cancer.
ICS Health Promotion Manager Norma Cronin said people are putting themselves at risk because of the way they behave in the sun.
'There has been a stark rise in the incidence of melanoma across all age groups, but especially in older people,' Ms Cronin said.
'The Irish Cancer Society believes that the soaring increase in this generation shows the impact that tanning behaviour had on a whole generation of men and women who would have been in their adolescent years and in their early 20s when the explosion in the package holiday industry was starting, when sunburn before suntan became a common ritual both at home and abroad and when sunbeds arrived in Ireland.'
The ICS said that of the 756 new cases of melanoma skin cancer that were diagnosed in 2008, 139 cases were in the 60-69 age group and 274 cases were in the 70+ age group.
'It is also important that you check your own skin regularly and look out for any changes that occur in the skin,' Ms Cronin said.
'If you notice a mole's change in shape, colour or size, get it checked by your GP without delay. Early detection of melanoma is vital and can save your life.'
